Dembélé and Bonmatí Shine as Ballon d’Or Winners
It was a historic night in Paris as football’s brightest stars were celebrated at the 69th Ballon d’Or ceremony, held at the Thé'stre du Ch'stelet. The spotlight was firmly on two players: Ousmane Dembélé, who captured his first-ever Ballon d’Or, and Aitana Bonmatí, who secured the women’s prize for an astonishing third consecutive year.
For Dembélé, this award marked the crowning moment of a career that has seen ups and downs but also remarkable growth. The French forward, playing for Paris Saint-Germain, was honored in front of his home crowd, with chants of his name echoing through the theater. The trophy was handed to him by none other than Ronaldinho, the Brazilian legend and PSG icon. Dembélé’s season had been one to remember: 35 goals across all competitions, 21 of them in Ligue 1, and crucial performances in Europe. His contributions were central to PSG’s historic treble, which included the Champions League, Ligue 1, and French Cup.
Also Read:- NSW Police Officer Charged After Arrest of Hannah Thomas
- Bitcoin’s Sharp Fall Triggers Massive Trader Liquidations
Although he was sidelined at the moment due to a hamstring injury, his influence on the pitch was undeniable. He not only scored but also created goals, particularly in PSG’s Champions League run, where he netted eight and assisted six. Even when he didn’t get on the scoresheet, his presence, such as in the final against Inter Milan, was felt through his assists and relentless pressure. Paris fans celebrated wildly, as it was a moment that felt like the city’s own triumph.
On the women’s side, Aitana Bonmatí of Barcelona once again proved why she is regarded as one of the greatest midfielders of her generation. At just 27, she has now been named the best player in the world three years in a row. Her technical brilliance, vision, and leadership were key as Barcelona Femení lifted another domestic treble in Spain. Yet, even with setbacks in the Champions League final against Arsenal and in the Euro 2025 final with Spain, Bonmatí’s consistency and influence on the game could not be denied.
In her acceptance speech, she reflected not just on her own journey but on the future of the sport. She emphasized that today’s younger generations of girls can dream openly about becoming professional footballers, something that was not as clear for her generation. For her, that cultural shift is perhaps as valuable as the trophies themselves.
The night also honored rising stars and coaches. Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal claimed the Kopa Trophy for best under-21 male player, while Vicky López took the women’s version. England’s Sarina Wiegman was named best women’s coach, and PSG’s Luis Enrique received the men’s award.
It was a ceremony that not only celebrated individual brilliance but also highlighted how football continues to evolve, inspire, and unite fans worldwide. For Dembélé and Bonmatí, it was a night that cemented their names in the sport’s history.
Read More:
0 Comments