France and Paris Saint-Germain star Ousmane Dembélé has been named the 2025 Ballon d’Or winner, cementing his place among football’s all-time greats.
The announcement at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris was greeted with celebration and admiration, as the 28-year-old forward edged Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal to claim the coveted prize. He succeeds Manchester City and Spain midfielder Rodri, last year’s winner.
For many, Dembélé’s triumph represents more than individual glory. After enduring years of injuries and inconsistency at Barcelona, his move to PSG reignited his career, leading to a season of extraordinary success that has now been crowned with football’s highest individual honour.
Meanwhile, Italy and Manchester City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma secured the Yachine Trophy, awarded to the world’s best goalkeeper.
The victory, his second after first winning in 2021, marks a stunning return to the summit of his position. Donnarumma’s success ended Emiliano Martínez’s two-year reign and underlined a shift among the game’s elite shot-stoppers.
Donnarumma also played a key role in PSG’s UEFA Champions League triumph, further solidifying his status as one of the finest goalkeepers of his generation.
