Dembele wins the Ballon d’Or, 2025 results explained

Yes, Ousmane Dembele won the 2025 Ballon d’Or. The Paris Saint-Germain forward claimed the men’s award in Paris, beating Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal. At the same ceremony, Spain star Aitana Bonmati won the women’s Ballon d’Or for the third year in a row.

The announcement confirmed Dembele as the sixth French player to secure the prize. It was recognition for his role in PSG’s historic treble, including the Champions League. Bonmati’s triumph added to Barcelona’s strong history in the women’s award.

How Dembele won the Ballon d’Or

Dembele’s victory followed a remarkable season under coach Luis Enrique. He moved into a central attacking role and scored crucial goals across Ligue 1, the French Cup, and Europe. His dribbling and new focus on end product made the difference.

According to reports from outlets like Reuters and BBC, PSG’s Champions League win was key. Dembele finally delivered consistency after years of injury concerns at Barcelona. His success also underlined PSG’s strategy of reshaping their squad after Kylian Mbappe’s departure.

Lamine Yamal, only 18, finished second. He also collected the Kopa Trophy for the best young player. Mohamed Salah of Liverpool was fourth, while several Premier League stars made the top 30 list.

Bonmati makes history

Aitana Bonmati defended her crown in the women’s award, beating Spain teammate Mariona Caldentey and England’s Alessia Russo. She became the first player to win three Ballon d’Or Féminin trophies. Her decisive assists and goals at Euro 2025 cemented her reputation.

Barcelona continue to dominate women’s football honors. Alongside Bonmati’s recognition, young star Vicky Lopez won the Kopa Trophy for women. Arsenal were named the women’s club of the year, while PSG earned the men’s club award.

Why the 2025 Ballon d’Or matters

For Dembele, the honor closes a chapter that began with struggles at Barcelona. It confirms his rise as PSG’s attacking leader. For Bonmati, it underlines her role as one of the greatest players in women’s football.

The results also highlight a trend: major trophies still influence voters. With the 2026 World Cup ahead, next year’s race will depend heavily on international performance. For now, Dembele and Bonmati stand at the top of world football.

To conclude, the answer is yes — Dembele did win the Ballon d’Or in 2025. His success, along with Bonmati’s record, marks a historic year for French and Spanish football.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Did Dembele win the Ballon d’Or in 2025?

Yes. He was confirmed as the men’s winner in Paris, beating Lamine Yamal.

Q2: Who won the women’s Ballon d’Or in 2025?

Aitana Bonmati of Barcelona won for the third consecutive year.

Q3: Who were the runners-up for the 2025 Ballon d’Or?

Lamine Yamal was second in the men’s award. Mariona Caldentey finished close behind Bonmati in the women’s vote.

Q4: How many French players have won the Ballon d’Or?

Dembele is the sixth. Other winners include Zidane, Benzema, and Platini.

Q5: What comes next for the Ballon d’Or?

The 2026 World Cup in North America will strongly influence next year’s award.

References

Reuters. (2025). Ballon d’Or 2025 winners confirmed in Paris.

Associated Press. (2025). Dembele and Bonmati take top football honors.

BBC News. (2025). Ballon d’Or ceremony highlights and results.