The prestigious Ballon d’Or awards 2025 were held in Paris, France, recognizing the world’s best footballers, coaches, and clubs. The glamorous ceremony once again brought together global stars of the game, celebrating extraordinary performances across men’s and women’s football.
TJ News Nigeria reports that the night ended with history-making triumphs for Ousmane Dembélé of Paris Saint-Germain and Aitana Bonmatí of Barcelona, who claimed the men’s and women’s Ballon d’Or trophies respectively.
Ousmane Dembélé Wins 2025 Men’s Ballon d’Or
French forward Ousmane Dembélé was crowned the 2025 Men’s Ballon d’Or winner, beating out competition from Europe’s elite. The PSG star impressed voters with his decisive contributions in Ligue 1 and the UEFA Champions League. His creativity, pace, and leadership were widely acknowledged as central to Paris Saint-Germain’s dominance in 2025.
Dembélé’s victory marks a new chapter for French football, placing him among the global icons who have previously lifted the award.
Aitana Bonmatí Claims 2025 Women’s Ballon d’Or
Spanish midfielder Aitana Bonmatí secured the Women’s Ballon d’Or, reinforcing her reputation as one of the best players in the world. Representing Barcelona and Spain, she dazzled fans with her vision, technical brilliance, and leadership on the pitch.
Bonmatí has now established herself as a consistent star on the global stage, continuing Spain’s recent dominance in women’s football.
Kopa Trophy: Future Stars Recognized
- Men’s Kopa Trophy (Best U21 Male Player): Lamine Yamal (Barcelona / Spain). At just 18, Yamal is already being compared to legends of the game.
- Women’s Kopa Trophy (Best U21 Female Player): Vicky López (Barcelona / Spain). The teenage midfielder has been praised for her creativity and versatility.
Both winners underline Barcelona’s remarkable ability to nurture young footballing talent.
Yashin Trophy: Goalkeepers Honored
- Men’s Yashin Trophy: Gianluigi Donnarumma (Italy / PSG) was celebrated as the world’s best goalkeeper, thanks to his commanding performances and consistency.
- Women’s Yashin Trophy: Hannah Hampton (England / Chelsea) earned the accolade for her outstanding displays in both domestic and international competitions.
These awards highlighted the crucial role of goalkeepers in shaping the modern game.
Gerd Müller Trophy: Deadly Strikers
- Men’s Gerd Müller Trophy: Viktor Gyökeres (Sweden / Sporting CP / Arsenal) was recognized as the year’s top scorer across competitions.
- Women’s Gerd Müller Trophy: Ewa Pajor (Poland / Barcelona) won the women’s edition after another prolific year in front of goal.
Both forwards stood out for their consistency and ability to change games with clinical finishing.
Johan Cruyff Trophy: Coaches of the Year
- Men’s Coach of the Year: Luis Enrique (PSG) guided his team to domestic dominance and European strength.
- Women’s Coach of the Year: Sarina Wiegman (England manager) was rewarded for her tactical brilliance and leadership at the international level.
Club of the Year Awards
- Men’s Club of the Year: Paris Saint-Germain, recognized for their dominance across competitions.
- Women’s Club of the Year: Arsenal, honored for their success in the women’s game and global impact.
Sócrates Award
The Sócrates Award—given for humanitarian and off-field contributions—was awarded to the Xana Foundation, reflecting football’s role in social impact beyond the pitch.
Complete List of 2025 Ballon d’Or Winners
- Men’s Ballon d’Or – Ousmane Dembélé (PSG / France)
- Women’s Ballon d’Or – Aitana Bonmatí (Barcelona / Spain)
- Kopa Trophy (Men) – Lamine Yamal (Barcelona / Spain)
- Kopa Trophy (Women) – Vicky López (Barcelona / Spain)
- Yashin Trophy (Men) – Gianluigi Donnarumma (Italy / PSG)
- Yashin Trophy (Women) – Hannah Hampton (England / Chelsea)
- Gerd Müller Trophy (Men) – Viktor Gyökeres (Sweden / Sporting CP / Arsenal)
- Gerd Müller Trophy (Women) – Ewa Pajor (Poland / Barcelona)
- Johan Cruyff Trophy (Men) – Luis Enrique (PSG)
- Johan Cruyff Trophy (Women) – Sarina Wiegman (England manager)
- Men’s Club of the Year – Paris Saint-Germain
- Women’s Club of the Year – Arsenal
- Sócrates Award – Xana Foundation
Global Significance of the 2025 Ballon d’Or
The 2025 Ballon d’Or ceremony highlighted a new generation of stars while also celebrating established leaders in football. With France, Spain, and England dominating the awards, European football continues to set the benchmark globally.
The night also underscored the growing recognition of women’s football, with equal emphasis on female players, coaches, and clubs.
