Ousmane Dembélé and Aitana Bonmatí: Leading Contenders for the 2025 Ballon d’Or
As the football world gears up for the prestigious Ballon d’Or ceremony, Paris Saint-Germain‘s Ousmane Dembélé is emerging as a frontrunner for the men’s award, while Spain’s Aitana Bonmatí aims for her third consecutive win in the women’s category. The event, often dubbed the “Oscars of Football,” is set to take place at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, France, on a Monday evening at 19:00 GMT.
Understanding the Ballon d’Or
The Ballon d’Or, established in 1956 by France Football, is the most coveted individual accolade in football. It recognizes exceptional talent and outstanding achievements over the past season, making it a significant milestone in a player’s career. The award has evolved over the years, transitioning from a European-only prize to a global recognition, reflecting the sport’s international appeal.
Dembélé: A Strong Contender
Ousmane Dembélé, the 28-year-old forward for PSG, has had a remarkable season, scoring 35 goals and stepping up in the absence of Kylian Mbappé. His contributions were pivotal in PSG’s domestic success, where they achieved a clean sweep of trophies and reached the FIFA Club World Cup final. Dembélé’s transformation from a winger to a central figure in the attack has been instrumental in his team’s success.
The competition for the men’s Ballon d’Or is fierce, with notable nominees including Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal, who, at just 18, has already made a significant impact in La Liga. Yamal is often compared to Lionel Messi, a testament to his potential and skill. Other contenders include Erling Haaland, Harry Kane, and Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk, all of whom have had stellar seasons.
Yamal: The Rising Star
Lamine Yamal’s ascent in football has been nothing short of extraordinary. Winning the Kopa Trophy for the best player under 21 at last year’s Ballon d’Or gala, Yamal has already made a name for himself as a key player for Barcelona. Despite his youth, he scored 18 goals in 55 appearances last season, helping his team secure the La Liga title and the Copa del Rey, although they fell short in the Champions League semifinals against Inter Milan.
Yamal’s ambition is clear; he recently stated, “I don’t dream of winning one Ballon d’Or, I dream of winning lots.” This mindset reflects the competitive spirit that drives many young athletes in today’s football landscape.
The Voting Process
The Ballon d’Or voting process is unique, focusing on achievements from the previous season rather than a calendar year. A panel of journalists from the top 100 countries in the FIFA world rankings casts their votes, selecting their top ten players from a list of 30 nominees. Points are awarded based on the ranking, with the player receiving the most points ultimately winning the award.
Bonmatí: Aiming for a Historic Third Win
In the women’s category, Aitana Bonmatí is a standout candidate. The 27-year-old Barcelona midfielder was named player of the tournament at the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025, despite Spain finishing as runners-up to England. Bonmatí’s exceptional skills and leadership on the field have made her a vital asset for both her club and national team.
The competition in the women’s category is also intense, with several players from the England team nominated, including Lucy Bronze and Leah Williamson. However, the absence of a clear standout from the victorious England squad may work in Bonmatí’s favor, as she seeks to solidify her legacy in women’s football.
Historical Context
The Ballon d’Or has a rich history, often dominated by legends like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, who collectively won the award 13 times between 2008 and 2023. Messi holds the record with eight wins, while Ronaldo has five. Their rivalry has defined an era in football, setting a high bar for future generations.
Other Categories and Awards
In addition to the men’s and women’s Ballon d’Or, several other categories recognize excellence in football. These include the Kopa Trophy for the best young player, the Yashin Trophy for the best goalkeeper, and the Gerd Müller Trophy for the top scorer. The awards also honor coaches and clubs, reflecting the collaborative nature of football.
Conclusion
As the 2025 Ballon d’Or ceremony approaches, the anticipation surrounding Ousmane Dembélé and Aitana Bonmatí continues to grow. Both players have demonstrated exceptional talent and resilience, making them worthy contenders for the prestigious awards. The event not only celebrates individual achievements but also highlights the evolving landscape of football, where new stars are constantly emerging to challenge the established legends. The world will be watching closely as the winners are announced, marking another chapter in the storied history of the Ballon d’Or.
