Ballon d’Or 2025: Triumphs of Dembélé and Bonmatí

In a star-studded evening at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, football’s most coveted individual awards were presented, with Ousmane Dembélé and Aitana Bonmatí claiming the 2025 Ballon d'Or trophies. The results marked both a career-defining moment for Dembélé and an unprecedented legacy for Bonmatí, whose third consecutive win shattered records in the women’s game.

Ousmane Dembélé: The Architect of a Historic PSG Season

After a transformative season, Ousmane Dembélé, at 28, has won his first-ever Ballon d’Or. His victory is not just a personal triumph but a testament to Paris Saint-Germain's groundbreaking campaign. Dembélé was instrumental in leading PSG to their inaugural UEFA Champions League title, along with a domestic treble of Ligue 1 and the French Cup.

• Statistical Dominance: Dembélé 's 2024-25 season was his most prolific yet, with an impressive 35 goals in all competitions. This remarkable output came from a strategic shift by coach Luis Enrique, who deployed the versatile attacker in a more central, impactful role.
• A French Legacy: This victory makes Dembélé the sixth French player to win the Ballon d'Or, following in the footsteps of legends like Michel Platini and Zinedine Zidane, and the first since Karim Benzema in 2022. He beat out a formidable field of contenders, including Barcelona's teenage sensation Lamine Yamal and his PSG teammate Vitinha.

During his emotional acceptance speech, Dembélé credited his teammates and coaching staff, particularly Luis Enrique, whom he called "like a father" during a challenging but rewarding season. He emphasized that his individual award was a result of a collective effort that culminated in PSG's historic success.

Aitana Bonmatí: A Three-Time Champion and Global Icon

Aitana Bonmatí has solidified her status as the undisputed queen of women’s football, winning her third consecutive Ballon d’Or Féminin. This historic achievement makes her the first woman to win the award three years in a row, a feat only matched by men's legends Lionel Messi and Michel Platini.

• Consistent Excellence: Despite Barcelona's loss in the Women's Champions League final to Arsenal, Bonmatí 's influence was undeniable. She was a driving force behind Barcelona’s domestic treble and a standout player for Spain in the EURO 2025, where her team reached the final. Her consistency and decisive contributions in critical moments proved more influential to voters than team silverware alone.
• Championing the Women's Game: Bonmatí 's speech echoed her commitment to the sport’s growth. She noted the enhanced parity at the awards ceremony, including new trophies like the Women's Kopa and Yashin awards. Her success is not just a personal honor but a powerful symbol of the rising visibility and professionalism of women's football on the world stage.

What the Awards Mean for the Sport

The 2025 Ballon d’Or awards signal a shift in how elite players are judged. Dembélé 's win highlights a growing appreciation for positional flexibility and the ability to contribute beyond a single role. His evolution from a winger to a central attacker was key to his and PSG's success.

Meanwhile, Bonmatí 's continued dominance underscores the importance of consistent, all-around excellence. Her victory, even in a year with stiff competition from players like Mariona Caldentey and Alessia Russo, proves that consistent leadership and technical brilliance are paramount.

The ceremony also celebrated the collective power of teams, with PSG named the Men's Club of the Year and Arsenal taking the Women's Club of the Year award. Ultimately, the 2025 Ballon d'Or celebrates the fusion of individual brilliance with team success, honoring two players who were not only the best in their positions but were the essential catalysts for their teams' most memorable moments.