Shocks, history, and pure magic were all on display on the 2025 Ballon d’Or awards night in Paris. Ousmane Dembélé of Paris Saint-Germain stunned everyone by defeating Barcelona sensation Lamine Yamal, who came in second, to win his first Men’s Ballon d’Or.
Dembélé’s ascent to the top followed an incredible season in which he scored vital goals to lead PSG to their first-ever UEFA Champions League championship. The French player finally emerged from the shadows to win football’s most coveted individual award after scoring more than 35 goals in all competitions.
Aitana Bonmatí once again demonstrated her unstoppable abilities on the women’s side. The Barcelona midfielder became the first woman in history to win the Women’s Ballon d’Or for the third consecutive year. She is regarded as a living legend in women’s football because of her supremacy on the field and constant excellence.
Gianluigi Donnarumma and Hannah Hampton won the Yashin Trophies for best goalkeepers, while Lamine Yamal and Vicky López won the Kopa Trophy for best young players. Coaches of the Year were Sarina Wiegman and Luis Enrique.
The 2025 Ballon d’Or celebrated football’s new generation and the legends who are still making history, not just the winners. It was a memorable evening for the fans.
