In a year that redefined both his career and the legacy of Paris Saint-Germain, Ousmane Dembélé was crowned the 2025 Ballon d’Or winner, becoming the sixth Frenchman to claim football’s most prestigious individual honor.
At 28 years old, Dembélé delivered the finest campaign of his career. Under the guidance of Luis Enrique, he transformed from a dynamic winger into a lethal striker, scoring 35 goals and providing 16 assists across all competitions. His performances were instrumental in PSG’s historic quadruple: winning the Champions League, Ligue 1, Coupe de France, and the French Super Cup.
In the Champions League, Dembélé was unstoppable—scoring against elite clubs like Manchester City, Liverpool, and Arsenal, and assisting twice in the final against Inter Milan. His efforts earned him the Champions League Player of the Season and the Ligue 1 Golden Boot.
A Moment of Emotion
Receiving the award from Brazilian legend Ronaldinho at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, Dembélé was visibly emotional. “It’s exceptional,” he said. “We have practically won everything together. This individual trophy is one the team has won collectively.” He thanked PSG, his coach Luis Enrique—whom he called “like a dad”—and paid tribute to his mother and former clubs.
The Competition
Dembélé edged out Lamine Yamal, Barcelona’s 18-year-old sensation, who had a stellar season with 16 goals and 22 assists, helping Barça win a domestic double. Yamal did, however, make history by winning the Kopa Trophy for best U21 player for the second consecutive year.
Other top contenders included:
- Mohamed Salah (Liverpool): 29 goals, 18 assists
- Raphinha (Barcelona): 32 goals, 16 assists
- Vitinha, Achraf Hakimi, and Kylian Mbappé (PSG)
PSG’s Night of Glory
The Ballon d’Or ceremony was a coronation for PSG:
- Team of the Year
- Luis Enrique: Best Coach
- Gianluigi Donnarumma: Yashin Trophy (Best Goalkeeper)
Dembélé’s win marks a generational shift in football. With Messi and Ronaldo’s era fading, new stars like Dembélé are stepping into the spotlight. His journey from injury-plagued talent to Ballon d’Or winner is a testament to resilience, reinvention, and the power of belief.