Dembélé’s dream season rewarded with Ballon d’Or glory
At the prestigious Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, French winger Ousmane Dembélé achieved football’s ultimate individual honor, claiming the 2025 Men’s Ballon d’Or. The Paris Saint-Germain star’s remarkable campaign, featuring 37 goals and 15 assists, helped secure PSG’s historic first Champions League title alongside domestic triumphs.
The 28-year-old became France’s sixth Ballon d’Or winner, edging out Barcelona prodigy Lamine Yamal and PSG teammate Vitinha.
An emotional Dembélé dedicated his victory to coach Luis Enrique and the PSG faithful, marking a pinnacle moment in his career.
Barcelona’s Yamal retained the Kopa Trophy for exceptional young talent, while Spanish midfielder Vicky López became the inaugural women’s winner.
Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma earned the Yashin Trophy after his crucial performances during Manchester City’s successful campaign.
The women’s awards maintained Spanish dominance as Aitana Bonmatí secured her third consecutive Ballon d’Or, following Barcelona’s Liga triumph and Champions League final appearance. England manager Sarina Wiegman claimed coaching honors.
African representation shone with Mohamed Salah finishing fourth overall and Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi placing sixth.
PSG’s collective success was recognized with the Men’s Club of the Year award, while Arsenal claimed the women’s equivalent after their Champions League victory.
The ceremony celebrated a season where individual brilliance met collective achievement across global football.
