Lamine Yamal and Mariona Caldentey runners-up for Ballon d'Or; Sarina Wiegman and Luis Enrique won awards for best coach of year; Hannah Hampton and Gianluigi Donnarumma scooped keeper gongs; Alessia Russo third in women's Ballon d'Or rankings as Arsenal claimed women's club of year
A Season of Brilliance
Dembélé enjoyed the best campaign of his career in the 2024/25 season, scoring 35 goals and providing 16 assists across all competitions. His dazzling form was central to PSG’s historic year, helping the club secure:
First-ever UEFA Champions League title
Ligue 1 championship
Coupe de France victory
This remarkable treble established PSG as a true powerhouse in European football, with Dembélé’s decisive contributions earning him global recognition.
From Adversity to Glory
What makes this victory even more inspiring is Dembélé’s journey. Once plagued by persistent injuries and criticized for inconsistency, his potential often seemed under threat. But at 28 years old, the French winger has finally silenced the doubters, fulfilling the promise that was evident since his teenage years.
His resilience and resurgence highlight a story of determination, hard work, and maturity—qualities that ultimately carried him to the very top of world football.
Ballon d’Or 2025 Rankings
Dembélé claimed the prestigious prize ahead of:
Lamine Yamal — Barcelona’s 17-year-old prodigy and runner-up, who continues to amaze the football world with his talent at such a young age.
Other elite nominees from across Europe who delivered outstanding seasons but could not match Dembélé’s impact and trophy haul.
In addition to Dembélé’s triumph, Paris Saint-Germain was also recognized as the Best Team of the Year, underscoring the club’s dominance in both domestic and European competitions.
What This Win Means
For Dembélé
Secures his place among the game’s greats.
Marks a defining moment in his career, shifting his reputation from “injury-prone talent” to global superstar.
For PSG
Validates years of investment and ambition to become a European superclub.
Solidifies their growing dominance on the world stage, both as a team and a brand.
For French Football
Dembélé becomes the latest Frenchman to win the Ballon d’Or, carrying forward a proud tradition and inspiring the next generation of players.
Conclusion
Ousmane Dembélé’s 2025 Ballon d’Or win is not just a personal triumph—it is a landmark moment for PSG, French football, and fans worldwide. From overcoming adversity to achieving historic success, Dembélé’s story proves that perseverance and brilliance can lead to the ultimate prize.
With his name now etched among football’s immortals, the question is no longer about his potential—it’s about how many more chapters of greatness he can write.