French winger Ousmane Dembélé has been awarded the prestigious 2025 Ballon d’Or, recognizing him as the world’s best footballer this year.
The announcement came on Monday, September 22, celebrating Dembélé’s outstanding performances at both club and international levels throughout the 2024-2025 season.
Dembélé, who plays for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), impressed critics and fans alike with his exceptional skill, creativity, and consistency.
He played a pivotal role in leading PSG to victory in the 2024-25 UEFA Champions League, scoring key goals and providing numerous assists.
His pace, dribbling ability, and tactical versatility have made him one of the most feared attackers in world football.
The 28-year-old’s Ballon d’Or win is a milestone in a career that saw challenges with injuries and competition for playing time.
However, this year marked a renaissance for Dembélé, as he delivered match-winning performances and demonstrated leadership on and off the pitch.
He also contributed significantly to the French national team’s successful campaign at the 2025 UEFA European Championship qualifiers.
In his acceptance speech, Dembélé expressed gratitude to his teammates, coaches, and family, dedicating the award to their unwavering support.
“This award is not just mine, it belongs to everyone who has believed in me,” he said.
The 2025 Ballon d’Or adds Dembélé to the elite list of footballers who have received football’s highest individual honor.
Analysts praise his technical mastery and mental resilience as factors that set him above his competitors in a field that included other global stars such as Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappé.
With this award, Ousmane Dembélé cements his legacy as one of football’s greats and sets the stage for what promises to be an exciting next chapter in his career.
Fans and commentators alike eagerly await his future contributions at PSG and for France.