The Ballon d’Or is the most respected individual prize in world football. Every year, France Football organises the ceremony in Paris to recognise the best male and female players, as well as top coaches, goalkeepers, young stars, clubs, and even those who make a difference off the field.
The 2025 edition was held on 22 September 2025, and it was an evening filled with history, emotion, and records. Here is the full breakdown of every award and what made the winners stand out.
The Top Prizes: Ballon d’Or Winners
- The headline award always goes to the best male and female players of the season.
Men’s Ballon d’Or: Ousmane Dembélé
For the first time in his career, France’s Ousmane Dembélé lifted the golden ball. Playing for Paris Saint-Germain, he was a key figure in their treble-winning season, including their long-awaited UEFA Champions League triumph. Known for his speed, dribbling, and clutch goals, Dembélé beat young rival Lamine Yamal to the honour. His victory opens a new chapter in French football, proving that staying strong through injuries and challenges can still take a player to the top.
Women’s Ballon d’Or: Aitana Bonmatí
Barcelona’s Aitana Bonmatí continued her dominance by winning her third consecutive Ballon d’Or Féminin. Already regarded as one of the best midfielders in history, she controlled games with vision, passing, and creativity. Her performances in the Champions League and domestic league cemented her reputation as the heartbeat of Barcelona’s women’s team.
Youth Stars: Kopa Trophies
- The Kopa Trophy honours the best players under the age of 21. This year, both categories showcased Barcelona’s rising talents.
Men’s Kopa Trophy: Lamine Yamal
At just 18 years old, Lamine Yamal made history by becoming the first player to win the men’s Kopa Trophy twice, and in back-to-back years. His dazzling skill, pace, and maturity helped Barcelona in key matches, making him one of football’s brightest young stars.
Women’s Kopa Trophy: Vicky López
Another Barcelona player, Vicky López, earned the women’s version. Still a teenager, she has already become a key figure in her team, impressing with her technical ability and intelligence. López is now considered one of the future leaders of Spain’s national team.
Also read: Ballon d’Or Winners: Top 5 Players with the Most Titles in Football History
Best Goalkeepers: Yashin Trophies
- Named after the legendary Lev Yashin, these awards celebrate the finest goalkeepers.
Men’s Yashin Trophy: Gianluigi Donnarumma
Paris Saint-Germain’s Gianluigi Donnarumma was named the best men’s goalkeeper. He produced crucial saves throughout the Champions League campaign and maintained consistency in Ligue 1. Donnarumma’s role in goal gave PSG the belief to reach their biggest targets.
Women’s Yashin Trophy: Hannah Hampton
England international Hannah Hampton claimed the women’s Yashin Trophy. While playing for Chelsea, she became known for her quick reflex saves and calmness in tough matches. Her performances on the international stage also played a big role in this recognition.
The Goal Machines: Gerd Müller Trophies
- These awards go to the top strikers of the season, honouring players with the most goals.
Men’s Gerd Müller Trophy: Viktor Gyökeres
Swedish striker Viktor Gyökeres, who shined at Sporting CP before joining Arsenal, won the men’s award. His constant goal scoring in league and European games made him one of the most dangerous forwards of the season.
Women’s Gerd Müller Trophy: Ewa Pajor
Polish striker Ewa Pajor won the women’s prize after a brilliant season with Barcelona. Known for her movement and finishing, she was clinical in front of goal and one of Europe’s most feared attackers.
Coaches of the Year: Johan Cruyff Trophies
Men’s Best Coach: Luis Enrique
Paris Saint-Germain’s Luis Enrique was honoured as the men’s coach of the year. He guided PSG to domestic glory and the long-awaited Champions League crown. His tactical discipline and trust in attacking football paid off on the biggest stage.
Women’s Best Coach: Sarina Wiegman
England’s Sarina Wiegman once again showed why she is regarded as the best in women’s football. Leading her national team with consistency and success, she continued to raise the standard of women’s coaching.
Club of the Year Awards
Men’s Club of the Year: Paris Saint-Germain
It was no surprise that PSG were named the top men’s club. Their Champions League victory, combined with domestic dominance, made them the standout team of the season.
Women’s Club of the Year: Arsenal
On the women’s side, Arsenal earned the award after a strong campaign in both league and European competitions. Their mix of homegrown talent and experienced internationals helped them shine.
Beyond Football: The Sócrates Award
Football is not only about trophies and goals, it also has a responsibility towards society. The Sócrates Award honours initiatives that use football for good. In 2025, the prize went to the Xana Foundation, a Spanish organisation that supports seriously ill children and their families. This award reminded everyone that the spirit of the game extends well beyond the pitch.
A Night of History
- The 2025 Ballon d’Or ceremony highlighted three major themes:
- The rise of new heroes like Dembélé and Yamal.
- Consistency at the top, with Bonmatí proving she is still the best.
- The importance of balance, recognising not just scorers and stars, but also coaches, goalkeepers, clubs, and social impact.
Conclusion
In the end, the 2025 Ballon d’Or ceremony was more than just a night of awards, it was a reflection of football’s growth, diversity, and spirit. From record-breaking youngsters to seasoned champions, and from club triumphs to social impact, the winners showed that the game continues to inspire both on and off the pitch.
Written by Kinjal Walantra
