Paris Saint Germain forward Ousmane Dembele has been crowned the 2025 Ballon d’Or winner after a season that will go down in history for both player and club. The French international scored 35 goals and provided 16 assists in 53 matches across all competitions, firing PSG to their first ever UEFA Champions League triumph while also retaining the Ligue 1 title and Coupe de France.
His consistency and brilliance throughout the campaign made him the standout performer in Europe, edging Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal in the race for football’s most prestigious individual honour. For Dembele, this recognition comes as validation of his rise to the top of the game, a journey that has been far from straightforward.
“When you are young, you think about winning those titles,” Dembele said with a smile after lifting the award. “Then, as you grow up, you realize that it is the team titles that matter. But when you are young, you hope to win the Champions League, the World Cup, to be the best player you can be. Winning the Ballon d’Or is exceptional.”
French Football Celebrates Another Icon
Dembele becomes only the sixth Frenchman in history to win the Ballon d’Or, joining the legendary company of Raymond Kopa, Michel Platini, Jean Pierre Papin, Zinedine Zidane and Karim Benzema. It is a list that spans decades of football history and cements Dembele’s place among the finest talents the nation has ever produced.
For France, which already boasts the 2018 World Cup victory and a continuous stream of emerging talent, Dembele’s success is yet another example of its ability to develop players who dominate the world stage.
PSG Enjoy Golden Era
PSG’s dominance in French football has long been established, but the 2024 25 season finally saw them conquer Europe. For years, the Champions League crown had eluded them, despite the presence of big names such as Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Neymar and Lionel Messi in the past. Under Luis Enrique, however, the team came together at the perfect time, and Dembele was at the heart of it.
The Parisian side were named the men’s club of the year, an accolade that recognizes their collective effort. Luis Enrique himself walked away with the men’s coach of the year award, a reward for his tactical vision and leadership. The triumph also elevated Gianluigi Donnarumma, their goalkeeper during that campaign, who picked up the men’s Yashin Trophy before moving on to Manchester City.
Lamine Yamal Shines Despite Missing Out
Although the Ballon d’Or slipped away, Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal still had reason to celebrate. The 18 year old claimed the Kopa Trophy for the best under 21 player in the world, thanks to an extraordinary season that included 18 goals and 25 assists in 55 matches. His contribution was vital as Barcelona secured both La Liga and the Copa del Rey.
For many, Yamal’s rise is just beginning, and his second place finish in the Ballon d’Or rankings is a sign of the battles to come between him and the established stars of European football. The teenager’s hunger and skill set suggest he may not have to wait long before his name is engraved on the golden ball.
Aitana Bonmati Continues To Reign
Barcelona were also in the spotlight on the women’s stage, as Aitana Bonmati once again claimed the Ballon d’Or Féminin. The Spanish midfielder became only the third player in history to win three consecutive editions, following in the footsteps of Michel Platini and Lionel Messi.
Her team enjoyed a season of dominance, securing a domestic treble that underlined their superiority. Bonmati’s influence in midfield has been unmatched, and her ability to dictate matches with composure and creativity has set her apart from her peers.
Rising Stars Of The Women’s Game
The women’s Kopa Trophy went to Vicky Lopez, another Barcelona prodigy who has already established herself as a key figure for the future. Chelsea’s Hannah Hampton made history by receiving the first ever women’s Yashin Trophy, while Arsenal were named women’s club of the year after a campaign that saw them lift silverware and challenge at the highest level.
On the coaching side, England boss Sarina Wiegman was recognized as women’s coach of the year, continuing her reputation as one of the most successful managers in the modern game.
Goal Scorers Rewarded With Gerd Muller Trophies
Scoring goals remains the most valuable currency in football, and this year’s Gerd Muller Trophies recognized the top marksmen of both the men’s and women’s games. Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres claimed the men’s honour with an incredible 53 goals, while Poland’s Ewa Pajor took the women’s award with 43 strikes. Their achievements highlighted the vital role of clinical finishing in lifting teams to success.
A Season That Changes The Narrative
For PSG, the 2024 25 campaign will forever be remembered as the year they finally claimed Europe’s biggest prize. For Dembele, it will be remembered as the year he silenced doubts and etched his name into football folklore. From dazzling runs on the wing to decisive finishes in crucial matches, his impact was undeniable.
The Ballon d’Or is the crowning moment of his career so far, but at 28 years old, he still has years ahead of him at the highest level. With PSG hungry to defend their European crown and France eyeing future international glory, Ousmane Dembele’s story may only be entering its most exciting chapter.
