Dembele’s Stellar Season Earns Him the 2025 Ballon d’Or

Ousmane Dembele of Paris Saint-Germain has been crowned the winner of the 2025 Ballon d’Or. This honor comes after a season where PSG won the UEFA Champions League. Dembele, 28, beat out young star Lamine Yamal of Barcelona and his PSG teammate Vitinha. This marks a career high point for Dembele, who has been recognized for his talent despite dealing with injuries and inconsistency. In the 2024–25 season, he realized his full potential, leading PSG to a historic treble with his key performances in European competitions. Dembele’s late-season brilliance, including his goals and assists, earned him the Ballon d’Or. He also secured the UEFA Champions League Player of the Season award. The win also signifies a major achievement for PSG, cementing their place as a top European team. The 2025 Ballon d’Or highlighted a shift in world football, with 18-year-old Lamine Yamal in second place, showcasing Barcelona’s youth development. Yamal was also the Kopa Trophy winner. Vitinha’s third-place finish showcased the overall strength of PSG during a memorable season.