Ousmane Dembele has been crowned the winner of the Ballon d’Or after leading Paris Saint-Germain to Champions League glory last season. The 28-year-old France forward beat Barcelona and Spain star Lamine Yamal to the top prize at the Paris ceremony, receiving football’s most illustrious individual honour from Ronaldinho to loud cheers and applause at the Theatre du Chatelet in Paris, and was emotional during his speech as he broke down into tears thanking his mum - who joined him on stage.
Barcelona and Spain star Aitana Bonmati won the women’s Ballon d’Or for the third year in a row, beating Mariona Caldentey and Alessia Russo to the top prize. Even though Spain lost out to England in the Euro 2025 final and Barcelona were beaten by Arsenal in the Champions League final, Bonmati’s quality shone through and the 27-year-old was named the best player at the Euros and in the Champions League last season. Bonmati is the first player to win the award three times since it was created in 2018.
Sarina Wiegman picked up the women’s Johan Cruyff trophy after leading England to their second consecutive Euros title, and her third in a row, while there was more success for the Lionesses as Hannah Hampton received the inaugural Yashin trophy for best women’s goalkeeper. Although missing out on the top prize, Yamal won the Kopa Trophy for best young player for the second year in row. PSG and Arsenal were named men’s and women’s clubs of the year, respectively.
Follow all the latest updates from the Ballon d’Or ceremony and find the winners of all the awards with our live blog below:
Ballon d’Or Awards
- Ousmane Dembele wins Ballon d'Or ahead of Lamine Yamal
- Liverpool's Mohamed Salah fourth as top-10 revealed
- Aitana Bonmati win women's Ballon d'Or for third straight year
- Alessia Russo third as Lionesses miss out on women's Ballon d'Or
- Lamine Yamal wins Kopa Trophy for second year running
- Sarina Wiegman and Luis Enrique win Johan Cruyff trophy
- Hannah Hampton and Gianluigi Donnarumma win Yashin trophy
- Viktor Gyokeres and Ewa Pajor win Gerd Muller trophy
- PSG and Arsenal win Club of the Year after Champions League wins
- Full list of tonight's winners
Sarina Wiegman: 'Let's keep uniting our beautiful game'
13:00 , Mike JonesSarina Wiegman, on accepting her award for best women’s team coach, had some lovely words to say about the man the award is in honour of.
The England manager said: “This award means even more because it is named after Johan Cruyff. He believed in the power of sport and believed in every kid having the opportunity to play, to grow and to belong, and that is why I feel so connected with him.
“I would like to say let's keep moving forward, keep uniting our beautiful game and enjoying our beautiful game too. Let's celebrate our successes too. And if Burna Boy's around, let's do some dancing too.”
The Dutchwoman was memorably surprised by her favourite artist Burna Boy during the Lionesses’ victory celebration in London after winning the Euros this summer.
Hannah Hampton pays tribute to ‘trailblazer’ Matt Beard at Ballon d’Or awards
12:40 , Mike JonesHannah Hampton paid tribute to former Liverpool manager Matt Beard after she won the inaugural Yashin Trophy award for best women’s goalkeeper at the Ballon d’Or ceremony.
Hampton saved two penalties in England’s Euro 2025 final triumph against Spain and was outstanding between the posts as the Lionesses defended their European crown in Switzerland.
Hannah Hampton pays tribute to ‘trailblazer’ Matt Beard at Ballon d’Or awards
Lionel Messi sends message to Ousmane Dembele after Ballon d’Or triumph
12:20 , Mike JonesLionel Messi has congratulated Ousmane Dembele on his Ballon d’Or success, telling the Paris Saint-Germain forward “you deserve it” after the Frenchman was presented with the prestigious prize.
Dembele edged out contenders including Lamine Yamal to secure the men’s Ballon d’Or after a fine season at PSG, helping the club to an elusive Champions League crown and another Ligue 1 title.
Lionel Messi sends message to Ousmane Dembele after Ballon d’Or triumph
Neymar hits out at Ballon d’Or results after Raphinha decision: ‘Too much of a joke’
12:00 , Mike JonesNeymar has criticised the final ranking of the men’s Ballon d’Or and described Raphinha’s fifth-place finish as a “joke” after the Brazilian’s record-breaking Champions League campaign.
Ousmane Dembele won the Ballon d’Or for the first time after leading Paris Saint-Germain to glory in the Champions League.
Neymar hits out at Ballon d’Or results after Raphinha decision: ‘Too much of a joke’
Ewa Pajor and Viktor Gyokeres win Gerd Müller Trophy
11:40 , Mike JonesViktor Gyokeres thanks France Football, his former club Sporting for the “incredible memories created together”. He says it’s an “amazing feeling” to be standing on stage, “it’s a great recognition and an honour”, and he thanks his family.
“Now I start a new stage in my career at Arsenal, let’s create some special memories there together as well.”
Ewa Pajor and Viktor Gyokeres win Gerd Müller Trophy
11:20 , Mike JonesPajor said when she was a little girl growing up in Poland she could never have imagined being at the Ballon d’Or ceremony.
“This trophy belongs to our team, every day playing with you makes me a better player and it’s a privilege to be part of this amazing club,” she says of her Barcelona teammates.
She seems a little lost for words; “it’s not easy,” she jokes. She thanks her manager and her family for their support.
“I am proud to be part of women’s football, how we are growing, how we inspire little girls who can watch us in big stadiums, on the television, and have a better opportunity to develop,” she finishes.
Why the Ballon d’Or got it wrong
11:00 , Miguel DelaneySo now we fully transition from the Lionel Messi-Cristiano Ronaldo era, to a modern equivalent of Florian Albert or Allan Simonsen.
That isn’t to be disrespectful to two genuine greats, or the 47th different Ballon d’Or winner in Ousmane Dembele. He, like them, at least has a good argument to claim the award.
It’s just that, also like them, it doesn’t feel one of those victories that is going to be overly celebrated from the vantage point of history. There’s an element of trying to force present performances to fit something grander, to amplify it into something that fits.
Emotional Ousmane Dembele breaks into tears thanking mum after winning Ballon d’Or
10:45 , Mike JonesAn emotional Ousmane Dembele broke into tears as he thanked his mum for supporting his career after winning the men’s Ballon d’Or in Paris.
Dembele received football’s most illustrious individual honour after leading Paris Saint-Germain to Champions League glory last season. The 28-year-old forward beat Barcelona and Spain star Lamine Yamal to the top prize.
Emotional Ousmane Dembele breaks into tears thanking mum after winning Ballon d’Or
Final Ballon d'Or rankings
10:30 , Mike Jones- Ousmane Dembele
- Lamine Yamal
- Vitinha
- Mohamed Salah
- Raphinha
- Achraf Hakimi
- Kylian Mbappe
- Cole Palmer
- Gianluigi Donnarumma
- Nuno Mendes
Full list of Ballon d'Or winners
10:15 , Mike JonesMen’s Ballon d’Or: Ousmane Dembele
Women's Ballon d'Or: Aitana Bonmatí
Socrates Award: Xana Foundation
Men's Club of the Year: Paris St-Germain
Women's Club of the Year: Arsenal
Gerd Müller Trophies - Ewa Pajor and Viktor Gyokeres
Men's Yashin Trophy - Gianluigi Donnarumma
Women's Yahsin Trophy - Hannah Hampton
Men's Johan Cruyff Trophy - Luis Enrique
Women's Johan Cruyff Trophy - Sarina Wiegman
Men's Kopa Trophy - Lamine Yamal
Women's Kopa Trophy - Vicky Lopez
Fabio Capello makes embarrassing gaffe when presenting Sarina Wiegman award at Ballon d’Or
10:00 , Mike JonesFormer England manager Fabio Capello mispronounced Sarina Wiegman’s name when awarding the Lionesses boss the Johan Cruyff trophy for best women’s coach at the Ballon d’Or awards.
As he read out the winner of the award, Capello announced the Dutch coach’s name as ‘Sabrina Wiegman’ before the Lionesses manager came onto the stage to accept the trophy at the Theatre du Chatelet in Paris.
Capello makes embarrassing gaffe when presenting Wiegman award at Ballon d’Or
Luis Enrique: 'The players accomplished an incredible year'
09:45 , Mike JonesPSG manager Luis Enrique had this to say when he accepted the Johan Cruyff Trophy. “It is time for me to thank so many people. First of all I would like to thank my family. It is a special award for them too. Then I would like to thank everyone from Paris St-Germain, everyone makes this club what it is. And of course the players, because they accomplished an incredible year.
“I would like to thank two very special people. First president Nasser Al-Khelaifi, who always looks after the team, and also Luis Campos, we have always shared a special relationship.”
Lionesses miss out on top prize
09:30 , Mike JonesWith Alessia Russo, Chloe Kelly, Leah Williamson, Lucy Bronze and Hannah Hampton, five of Lionesses made the top 10, but old foes Spain won the top prize and finished runner-up.
The best-placed of the Lionesses was Russo, who only managed third despite winning Euro 2025, the Champions League with Arsenal and being the top goalscorer in the WSL.
Women's Ballon d'Or top 10
09:15 , Mike JonesHere’s how the women’s Ballon d’Or nominees were ranked:
- Aitana Bonmati
- Mariona Caldentey
- Alessia Russo
- Alexia Putellas
- Chloe Kelly
- Patri Guijarro
- Leah Williamson
- Ewa Pajor
- Lucy Bronze
- Hannah Hampton
Aitana Bonmati: 'If it was possible to share it, I would'
09:00 , Mike JonesHere’s a translation of Aitana Bonmati’s speech in Spanish: “My third time in a row here, and I still can't believe it. Incredible. Thank you to France Football for this, for the third time, it really could have gone to anyone. If it was possible to share it, I would, because I think it has been a year with an exceptionally high level, above all among my teammates, who had a great year.
“Also to receive it from the hands of Andres Iniesta, one of my idols since I was little, alongside Xavi. I learned my football from them, to this day I thank them for all that they have taught me. Thank you to them for everything that they have done in football.
“Also thank you to the organisation, for improving things year on year. This year we have the same awards as the men, which I welcome, that is what we have worked towards for a long time.
“To my club Barcelona, the president, the board, the staff and my teammates. For awards like this, we don't achieve them alone. It's thanks to the collective work of the team. I owe Barcelona everything, this is the club of my life. I hope to represent this badge for many more years.”
Aitana Bonmati makes history with Ballon d’Or triumph
08:50 , Jamie BraidwoodBarcelona and Spain star Aitana Bonmati has won the women’s Ballon d’Or for the third year in a row, beating Mariona Caldentey and Alessia Russo to the top prize.
Even though Spain lost out to England in the Euro 2025 final and Barcelona were beaten by Arsenal in the Champions League final, Bonmati’s quality shone through and the 27-year-old was named the best player at the Euros and in the Champions League last season.
Arsenal win Women's Club of the Year
08:40 , Mike JonesRenee Slegers was joined by her players onstage when the club were presented with the best women’s team of the year award.
The Arsenal manager said it was a real honour to win.
“I’m proud to stand here representing a club who has pioneered women’s football for 38 years,” she explained.
“Community is what we’re building around Arsenal Women.”
She also thanked the board and club directors, and “our wonderful supporters, who are an integral part of who we are as a club, driving us to sold-out crowds at Emirates Stadium”.
“Thank you all for this award, invest in women, invest in women’s sport. When we do that all of us benefit,” she concluded.
More from Wiegman on Coach of the Year award
08:30 , Mike Jones"This award means even more because it is named after Johan Cruyff,” the England boss said.
“He believed in the power of sport and believed in every kid having the opportunity to play, to grow and to belong, and that is why I feel so connected with him.
"I would like to say let's keep moving forward, keep uniting our beautiful game and enjoying our beautiful game too. Let's celebrate our successes too. And if Burna Boy's around, let's do some dancing too."
Three in a row for Bonmati
08:20 , Mike JonesAitana Bonmati won the Ballon d’Or Feminin for the third year in a row becoming the first ever female footballer to achieve the feat.
“It’s incredible this feeling. I never thought when I was a kid that I could achieve this because I didn’t think women’s football can exist,” Bonmati said.
“I had idols like Andres Iniesta and Xavi and when I was a kid I only saw them on TV. It’s incredible to be here and make history.
“But all of these trophies are because of collective work. We had a difficult season because we won some trophies, but we also lost some to amazing footballers.”
Sarina Wiegman reacts to Johan Cruyff award
08:10 , Mike JonesEngland manager Sarina Wiegman won the best women’s coach award at this year’s Ballon d’Or after orchestrating a European Championship title defence with the Lionesses.
“What an honour to get this award after an insane summer,” Wiegman said at the ceremony in Paris.
“I would like to thank the players, the staff, the FA and my family for the hard work, trust and unconditional support I got from them. Without you I would not be standing here.
“The women’s game has grown so far, we have broken records. I would also like to thank Switzerland for organising the Euros because it was absolutely insane.
“This is not just a personal honour. I see it as a recognition of the women’s game and of our journey because we have come so far.”
Dembele thanks fans for supporting him
08:00 , Mike JonesThe newly crowned Ballon d’Or winner praised his fans and supporters on X following his win.
He posted and picture of himself with the trophy and captioned it: “A lot of joy, pride, and emotion. A dream come true.
“Thank you to everyone who has always supported me throughout this journey.”
Beaucoup de joie, de fierté et d’émotion. Un rêve devenu réalité. Merci à tous ceux qui m’ont toujours soutenu tout au long de ce parcours. #ballondor pic.twitter.com/dLTgZXqa6d
— Ousmane Dembélé (@dembouz) September 23, 2025
Why the Ballon d’Or got it wrong
07:30 , Flo Clifford“So now we fully transition from the Lionel Messi-Cristiano Ronaldo era, to a modern equivalent of Florian Albert or Allan Simonsen.
“That isn’t to be disrespectful to two genuine greats, or the 47th different Ballon d’Or winner in Ousmane Dembele. He, like them, at least has a good argument to claim the award.
“It’s just that, also like them, it doesn’t feel one of those victories that is going to be overly celebrated from the vantage point of history. There’s an element of trying to force present performances to fit something grander, to amplify it into something that fits.”
More from Chief Football Writer Miguel Delaney here:
Lionesses miss out on top prize
07:00 , Flo Clifford- Aitana Bonmati - Barcelona, Spain
- Mariona Caldentey - Arsenal, Spain
- Alessia Russo - Arsenal, England
- Alexia Putellas - Barcelona, Spain
- Chloe Kelly - Man City/Arsenal, England
- Patri Guijarro - Barcelona, Spain
- Leah Williamson - Arsenal, England
- Ewa Pajor - Barcelona, Poland
- Lucy Bronze - Chelsea, England
- Hannah Hampton - Chelsea, England
Five Lionesses made the top 10, but old foes Spain won the top prize and finished runner-up.
The best-placed of the Lionesses was Alessia Russo, who only managed third despite winning Euro 2025 and the Champions League with Arsenal.
Hannah Hampton pays tribute to ‘trailblazer’ Matt Beard at Ballon d’Or awards
06:30 , Flo CliffordHannah Hampton paid tribute to former Liverpool manager Matt Beard after she won the inaugural Yashin Trophy award for best women’s goalkeeper at the Ballon d’Or ceremony.
Hampton saved two penalties in England’s Euro 2025 final triumph against Spain and was outstanding between the posts as the Lionesses defended their European crown in Switzerland.
The 24-year-old received the award from former England International Mary Earps, who was previously denied the chance to win the Yashin Trophy because there was not a prize for women.
Hannah Hampton pays tribute to ‘trailblazer’ Matt Beard at Ballon d’Or awards
Fabio Capello makes embarrassing gaffe when presenting Sarina Wiegman award at Ballon d’Or
06:00 , Jamie BraidwoodFormer England manager Fabio Capello mispronounced Sarina Wiegman’s name when awarding the Lionesses boss the Johan Cruyff trophy for best women’s coach at the Ballon d’Or awards.
As he read out the winner of the award, Capello announced the Dutch coach’s name as ‘Sabrina Wiegman’ before the Lionesses manager came onto the stage to accept the trophy at the Theatre du Chatelet in Paris.
Wiegman led England to a second consecutive Euros title in Switzerland this summer, as well as her third Euros title in a row as coach, as the Lionesses defeated Spain on penalties.
Capello makes embarrassing gaffe when presenting Wiegman award at Ballon d’Or
Luis Enrique: 'The players accomplished an incredible year'
05:00 , Flo CliffordPSG manager Luis Enrique had this to say when he accepted the Johan Cruyff Trophy. “It is time for me to thank so many people. First of all I would like to thank my family. It is a special award for them too. Then I would like to thank everyone from Paris St-Germain, everyone makes this club what it is. And of course the players, because they accomplished an incredible year.
“I would like to thank two very special people. First president Nasser Al-Khelaifi, who always looks after the team, and also Luis Campos, we have always shared a special relationship.”
Full list of Ballon d'Or winners
04:00 , Flo CliffordMen’s Ballon d’Or: Ousmane Dembele
Women's Ballon d'Or: Aitana Bonmatí
Socrates Award: Xana Foundation
Men's Club of the Year: Paris St-Germain
Women's Club of the Year: Arsenal
Gerd Müller Trophies - Ewa Pajor and Viktor Gyokeres
Men's Yashin Trophy - Gianluigi Donnarumma
Women's Yahsin Trophy - Hannah Hampton
Men's Johan Cruyff Trophy - Luis Enrique
Women's Johan Cruyff Trophy - Sarina Wiegman
Men's Kopa Trophy - Lamine Yamal
Women's Kopa Trophy - Vicky Lopez
Ousmane Dembele and Aitana Bonmati win Ballon d'Or
03:00 , Flo Clifford28-year-old Dembele had quite the season, racking up 37 goals and 15 assists in 60 appearances, and winning the Champions League, Ligue Un, French Cup and French Super Cup.
While Bonmati reached the Euros and Champions League finals with Spain and Barcelona, losing both, but won the Liga F title, the Copa de la Reina, and Spanish Super Cup, notching 20 goals and 16 assists in 58 matches.
Hannah Hampton: 'I stand on the shoulders of so many great goalkeepers'
02:00 , Flo CliffordAnd Hannah Hampton’s full speech as winner of the Yashin Trophy. “Firstly I would like to say a massive thank you to France Football for this award. I don't think it's an achievement for me but for women's goalkeeping, that the award is finally now taking part.
“I stand on the shoulders of so many great goalkeepers of the past. Sitting alongside my fellow nominees, I'm proud to be a part of such an incredible group and inspiring future generations of goalkeepers coming through and training so hard.
“I'd like to thank my family, my brother who is here tonight, for the sacrifices that you made when I was growing up, driving me around everywhere so that I could fulfil my dream and be here tonight.
“To all the coaches, there's so many, from Frosty at Stoke, to all the coaches at Birmingham, all those at Villa, at Chelsea with Emma and Strew bringing me in, and now with Seb, Dan and Sonia having to put up with me on a daily basis. To Sarina and Dan for having the faith in me over the summer, with the success we've had. To the fans, your support does not go unnoticed and it truly means a lot.
“Finally, to Grandpa. I love and miss you everyday. I hope I made you proud. We did it.”
Renee Slegers: 'Invest in women, invest in women's sport'
01:00 , Flo CliffordHere’s Renee Slegers’ full speech as Arsenal won the award for Best Women’s Club.
“Wow. Thank you so much. It's a true honour for Arsenal to be recognised as Women's club of the year and we are so pleased to be here tonight to accept this award on behalf of everyone connected to our club.
“I'm proud to stand here representing this club that has pioneered women's football for 38 years, since 1987, when we were founded as part of Arsenal Community. It's fitting that we are being celebrated here tonight as community is what we are building at Arsenal women.
“I'd like to thank our owners, Stan and Josh [Kroenke], the board, Claire [Wheatley] and everyone across the club that strives every day to give us the best possible conditions to make it possible to do what we want to.
“Finally I can't stand here and not reference our wonderful supporters, who are, and have always been, such an integral part of who we are as a club. Driving us to play in front of sold out crowds at Emirates stadium. We truly could not achieve any of this without you all.
“Invest in women. Invest in women's sport. When we do that, all of us benefit.”
Hannah Hampton pays tribute to Matt Beard
Tuesday 23 September 2025 00:30 , Flo CliffordYashin Trophy winner Hannah Hampton paid a beautiful tribute to Matt Beard, the former Liverpool manager who died this weekend aged 47.
“The women's game sadly on Saturday lost a real trailblazer, Matt Beard,” she said. “Matt was someone who cared an awful lotfor the women's game when no one else did. He lit up the room when everyone was in it. And this is just a message to show that not everyone should have to go through these dark moments alone. Sometimes the brightest smiles in the room hide the heaviest pain. He'll be greatly missed.”
Aitana Bonmati makes history with Ballon d’Or triumph
Monday 22 September 2025 23:55 , Jamie BraidwoodBarcelona and Spain star Aitana Bonmati has won the women’s Ballon d’Or for the third year in a row, beating Mariona Caldentey and Alessia Russo to the top prize.
Even though Spain lost out to England in the Euro 2025 final and Barcelona were beaten by Arsenal in the Champions League final, Bonmati’s quality shone through and the 27-year-old was named the best player at the Euros and in the Champions League last season.
The midfielder keeps the women’s Ballon d’Or at Barcelona for the fifth year in a row, following two wins for Alexia Putellas and now a third consecutive triumph. Bonmati is the first player to win the award three times since it was created in 2018.
Emotional Ousmane Dembele breaks into tears thanking mum after winning Ballon d’Or
Monday 22 September 2025 23:40 , Jamie BraidwoodAn emotional Ousmane Dembele broke into tears as he thanked his mum for supporting his career after winning the men’s Ballon d’Or in Paris.
Dembele received football’s most illustrious individual honour after leading Paris Saint-Germain to Champions League glory last season. The 28-year-old forward beat Barcelona and Spain star Lamine Yamal to the top prize.
Dembele used to be known as a promising but inconsistent young talent who struggled after a big-money move to Barcelona in 2017. But he was transformed after arriving at PSG in 2023, with manager Luis Enrique helping to turn him into a complete forward who offered defensive work as well as goals.
Emotional Ousmane Dembele breaks into tears thanking mum after winning Ballon d’Or
Why the Ballon d’Or got it wrong
Monday 22 September 2025 23:25 , Miguel DelaneySo now we fully transition from the Lionel Messi-Cristiano Ronaldo era, to a modern equivalent of Florian Albert or Allan Simonsen.
That isn’t to be disrespectful to two genuine greats, or the 47th different Ballon d’Or winner in Ousmane Dembele. He, like them, at least has a good argument to claim the award.
It’s just that, also like them, it doesn’t feel one of those victories that is going to be overly celebrated from the vantage point of history. There’s an element of trying to force present performances to fit something grander, to amplify it into something that fits.
More from Chief Football Writer Miguel Delaney here:
Sarina Wiegman: 'Let's keep uniting our beautiful game'
Monday 22 September 2025 23:10 , Flo CliffordSarina Wiegman, accepting her award for best women’s team coach, had some lovely words to say about the man the award is in honour of.
The England manager said: “This award means even more because it is named after Johan Cruyff. He believed in the power of sport and believed in every kid having the opportunity to play, to grow and to belong, and that is why I feel so connected with him.
“I would like to say let's keep moving forward, keep uniting our beautiful game and enjoying our beautiful game too. Let's celebrate our successes too. And if Burna Boy's around, let's do some dancing too.”
The Dutchwoman was memorably surprised by her favourite artist Burna Boy during the Lionesses’ victory celebration in London after winning the Euros this summer.
Aitana Bonmati: 'If it was possible to share it, I would'
Monday 22 September 2025 22:50 , Flo CliffordHere’s a translation of Aitana Bonmati’s speech in Spanish: “My third time in a row here, and I still can't believe it. Incredible. Thank you to France Football for this, for the third time, it really could have gone to anyone. If it was possible to share it, I would, because I think it has been a year with an exceptionally high level, above all among my teammates, who had a great year.
“Also to receive it from the hands of Andres Iniesta, one of my idols since I was little, alongside Xavi. I learned my football from them, to this day I thank them for all that they have taught me. Thank you to them for everything that they have done in football.
“Also thank you to the organisation, for improving things year on year. This year we have the same awards as the men, which I welcome, that is what we have worked towards for a long time.
“To my club Barcelona, the president, the board, the staff and my teammates. For awards like this, we don't achieve them alone. It's thanks to the collective work of the team. I owe Barcelona everything, this is the club of my life. I hope to represent this badge for many more years.”
Paris celebrates Ousmane Dembele's Ballon d'Or
Monday 22 September 2025 22:40 , Flo CliffordOusmane Dembélé is the 2025 Men's Ballon d'Or... and the Parisians celebrate it! #ballondor pic.twitter.com/kDVbWgI7p3
— Ballon d'Or (@ballondor) September 22, 2025
Final Ballon d'Or rankings
Monday 22 September 2025 22:30 , Flo Clifford1: Ousmane Dembele
2: Lamine Yamal
3: Vitinha
4: Mohamed Salah
5: Raphinha
6: Achraf Hakimi
7: Kylian Mbappe
8: Cole Palmer
9: Gianluigi Donnarumma
10: Nuno Mendes
Final Women's Ballon d'Or rankings
Monday 22 September 2025 22:20 , Flo Clifford1: Aitana Bonmati
2: Mariona Caldentey
3: Alessia Russo
4: Alexia Putellas
5: Chloe Kelly
6: Patricia Guijarro
7: Leah Williamson
8: Ewa Pajor
9: Lucy Bronze
Full list of tonight's winners
Monday 22 September 2025 22:15 , Flo CliffordOusmane Dembele - Ballon d'Or
Aitana Bonmati - Ballon d'Or Feminin
Lamine Yamal - Kopa Trophy
Vicky Lopez - Women's Kopa Trophy
Gianluigi Donnarumma - Yashin Trophy
Hannah Hampton - Women's Yashin Trophy
Viktor Gyokeres - Gerd Muller Trophy
Ewa Pajor - Women's Gerd Muller Trophy
PSG - Club of the year
Arsenal - Women's Club of the Year
Luis Enrique - Men's Coach of the Year
Sarina Wiegman - Women's Coach of the Year
Fundacion Xana - Socrates Award
Paris crowd celebrates Dembele's win
Monday 22 September 2025 22:09 , Flo CliffordThe camera pans to the now-sodden red carpet outside, as the heavens have opened while the ceremony has been going on.
Not that that’s dampened the enthusiasm of those gathered outside, who are singing Dembele’s chant at full voice.
All of tonight’s winners are invited onstage for the traditional group photo, and that’s the end of tonight’s ceremony.
Time for Burna Boy and some dancing, if Sarina Wiegman gets her way...
Aitana Bonmati and Ousmane Dembele win Ballon d'Or
Monday 22 September 2025 22:02 , Flo CliffordNow Aitana Bonmati is invited back onstage for a selfie with Dembele and the presenters; Dembele appears to ask where her Ballon d’Or is, as she’s not carrying it.
Ousmane Dembele wins Ballon d'Or!
Monday 22 September 2025 21:59 , Flo CliffordHe thanks his family, getting emotional as he thanks his mother, who is also holding back tears in the audience, and she’s invited onstage to give him a hug and to watch his highlight reel.
Ousmane Dembele wins Ballon d'Or!
Monday 22 September 2025 21:55 , Flo CliffordDembele won the Champions League, Ligue 1, and the French Cup last season, with PSG also finishing runners-up to Chelsea at the Club World Cup.
He kisses his 12kg, solid gold award and gives Ronaldinho a bear hug before beginning his speech. He thanks the staff at PSG, Luis Enrique and his teammates, all of whom are “exceptionnel”, and gets some more cheers as he wells up.
Ousmane Dembele wins Ballon d'Or!
Monday 22 September 2025 21:51 , Flo CliffordThe tension is broken as both players have a laugh at the number of voices shouting out for one or the other.
The heckling continues until Ronaldinho says, with zero fanfare, “Dembele!”
The Paris St-Germain and France forward gives Lamine Yamal a hug, as well as his family, before going onstage to accept the award to huge cheers - and the crowd singing his chant.
Ousmane Dembele wins Ballon d'Or!
Monday 22 September 2025 21:49 , Flo CliffordOusmane Dembele is this year’s winner!
Lamine Yamal or Ousmane Dembele to win Ballon d'Or
Monday 22 September 2025 21:47 , Flo CliffordThat leaves the two heavy favourites...
Mohamed Salah fourth in Ballon d'Or standings
Monday 22 September 2025 21:47 , Flo CliffordHere are numbers 10 to three...
10. Nuno Mendes
9. Gianluigi Donnarumma
8. Cole Palmer
7. Kylian Mbappé
6. Achraf Hakimi
5. Raphinha
4. Mohamed Salah
3. Vitinha
Ballon d'Or up next
Monday 22 September 2025 21:46 , Flo CliffordRonaldinho is up to present the men’s award.
Aitana Bonmati wins Women's Ballon d'Or
Monday 22 September 2025 21:42 , Flo CliffordWhat an achievement: a World Cup winner, a three-time Champions League winner, the first woman to win three Ballon d’Or trophies in a row, and still only 27.
Aitana Bonmati wins Women's Ballon d'Or
Monday 22 September 2025 21:41 , Flo CliffordEven though Spain lost out to England in the Euro 2025 final and Barcelona were beaten by Arsenal in the Champions League final, Bonmati’s quality shone through and the 27-year-old was named the best player at the Euros and in the Champions League last season. Bonmati is the first player to win the award three times since it was created in 2018.
Her Spain teammate Mariona Caldentey finishes runner-up.
Lionel Messi and Michel Platini are the only other players to win three in a row. She says she never thought she could achieve this as a kid, “because I didn’t know women’s football could exist. I only saw [male players]. So it’s incredible to be here, to make history, but all of these trophies are because of the collective work.
“We are more than footballers, no, we are living by example. For the new generations coming, they can dream about being footballers, this is the best [thing] we are achieving, I think.”
Aitana Bonmati wins Women's Ballon d'Or
Monday 22 September 2025 21:38 , Flo CliffordSpain and Barcelona star Aitana Bonmati retains the Ballon d’Or, having now won for three years running.
Just before the announcement, there was a video played of the voters for the awards discussing how, as in 2024, nobody is told who the award winners are in advance, leaving the players and their entourages totally in the dark.
Aitana Bonmati wins Women's Ballon d'Or!
Monday 22 September 2025 21:36 , Flo CliffordAitana Bonmati wins for the third year in a row!
Ballon d'Or
Monday 22 September 2025 21:35 , Flo Clifford
Alessia Russo third
Monday 22 September 2025 21:31 , Flo CliffordThat’s 10th, ninth, seventh, fifth, and third for the Lionesses.
Alessia Russo, Champions League winner with Arsenal and Euro 2025 winner with England, is the best-placed in third.
And of course it’s time for another ad break...
Bonmati or Caldentey to win Ballon d'Or
Monday 22 September 2025 21:29 , Flo CliffordAlessia Russo has reason to feel put out there, I reckoned. Hannah Hampton raises an eyebrow in the audience.
It’s a shootout between Aitana Bonmati and her Spain teammate Mariona Caldentey for the Ballon d’Or.
Women's Ballon d'Or top 10
Monday 22 September 2025 21:28 , Flo CliffordNumbers 10 to three are revealed...
10. Hannah Hampton
9. Lucy Bronze
8. Ewa Pajor
7. Leah Williamson
6. Patri Guijarro
5. Chloe Kelly
4. Alexia Putellas
3. Alessia Russo
Women's Ballon d'Or nominees
Monday 22 September 2025 21:27 , Flo Clifford- Aitana Bonmati - Barcelona, Spain
- Lucy Bronze - Chelsea, England
- Mariona Caldentey - Arsenal, Spain
- Patri Guijarro - Barcelona, Spain
- Hannah Hampton - Chelsea, England
- Chloe Kelly - Man City/Arsenal, England
- Ewa Pajor - Barcelona, Poland
- Alexia Putellas - Barcelona, Spain
- Alessia Russo - Arsenal, England
- Leah Williamson - Arsenal, England
Women's Ballon d'Or up next
Monday 22 September 2025 21:26 , Flo CliffordAndrés Iniesta, World Cup winner in 2010, steps up to present the women’s award.
Ballon d'Or up next
Monday 22 September 2025 21:25 , Flo CliffordWe’re very close now to finding out the Ballon d’Or winners themselves.
First up is a bit of arm-based interpretative dance, with the trophies unboxed onstage.
Each Ballon d’Or weighs more than 12kg and is made of real gold, Kate Scott says.
Xana Foundation wins Socrates Award
Monday 22 September 2025 21:21 , Flo CliffordThe Socrates Award goes to the Xana Foundation, which supports children and young people with serious illnesses and their families. The foundation was set up by Luis Enrique after his youngest daughter Xana died of bone cancer aged nine, in 2019. Patron Sira Martinez, Xana’s sister, accepts the award.
Socrates Award for Best Social Engagement
Monday 22 September 2025 21:16 , Flo CliffordPrincess Charlene of Monaco is up to present the next gong, the Socrates Award for Best Social Engagement. Bit of a change in vibe from DJ Snake. The award is named after Brazilian football legend Socrates, not the ancient Greek philosopher.
Paris Saint-Germain win Men's Club of the Year
Monday 22 September 2025 21:13 , Flo CliffordThat’ll please DJ Snake, who says he is Parisian and a longtime PSG fan.
President Nasser Al-Khelaifi comes to accept the gong. He thanks his players and explains their absence playing against Marseille is why he is here accepting the award on their behalf, and thanks the “best fans in the world”. (Awkwardly, PSG have just lost 1-0 to Marseille.)
Paris Saint-Germain win Men's Club of the Year
Monday 22 September 2025 21:10 , Flo CliffordParis Saint-Germain are the winners after their treble, most significantly their maiden Champions League triumph.
Men's Club of the Year nominees
Monday 22 September 2025 21:07 , Flo Clifford- Barcelona (Spain)
- Botafogo (Brazil)
- Chelsea (England)
- Liverpool (England)
- Paris Saint-Germain (France)
Winners of the Ballon d'Or
Monday 22 September 2025 21:06 , Flo CliffordWhile we endure another ad break, here are some of tonight’s winners:
Arsenal win Women's Club of the Year
Monday 22 September 2025 21:03 , Flo CliffordRenee Slegers is joined by her players onstage. She thanks France Football, Uefa, and those who voted. She says it’s a real honour. “I’m proud to stand here representing a club who has pioneered women’s football for 38 years,” she says.
“Community is what we’re building around Arsenal Women.” She thanks the board and club directors, and “our wonderful supporters, who are an integral part of who we are as a club, driving us to sold-out crowds at Emirates Stadium”.
“Thank you all for this award, invest in women, invest in women’s sport. When we do that all of us benefit,” she concludes.
All of her players decline to add anything more, so it’s time for a montage of their best moments.
Arsenal win Women's Club of the Year
Monday 22 September 2025 21:00 , Flo CliffordThe Champions League winners are the trophy winners!
Women's Club of the Year
Monday 22 September 2025 21:00 , Flo CliffordKate Scott probably upsets France Football by asking if DJ Snake can speak in English rather than French. Some of the crowd look rather baffled at his presence.
Women's Club of the Year
Monday 22 September 2025 20:58 , Flo CliffordPSG legend Javier Pastore and, bizarrely, DJ Snake are here to present the award for Women’s Club of the Year.
Ewa Pajor and Viktor Gyokeres win Gerd Müller Trophy
Monday 22 September 2025 20:56 , Flo CliffordViktor Gyokeres thanks France Football, his former club Sporting for the “incredible memories created together”. He says it’s an “amazing feeling” to be standing on stage, “it’s a great recognition and an honour”, and he thanks his family.
“Now I start a new stage in my career at Arsenal, let’s create some special memories there together as well.”
Ewa Pajor and Viktor Gyokeres win Gerd Müller Trophy
Monday 22 September 2025 20:54 , Flo CliffordPajor says when she was a little girl growing up in Poland she could never have imagined standing here today. “This trophy belongs to our team, every day playing with you makes me a better player and it’s a privilege to be part of this amazing club,” she says of her Barcelona teammates.
She seems a little lost for words; “it’s not easy,” she jokes. She thanks her manager and her family for their support.
“I am proud to be part of women’s football, how we are growing, how we inspire little girls who can watch us in big stadiums, on the television, and have a better opportunity to develop,” she finishes.
Ewa Pajor and Viktor Gyokeres win Gerd Müller Trophy
Monday 22 September 2025 20:52 , Flo CliffordLuis Figo is now invited onstage to present the Gerd Müller Trophy for the Best Strikers.
The winners are Ewa Pajor and Viktor Gyokeres!
Tributes paid to Law, Silva and Jota
Monday 22 September 2025 20:51 , Flo CliffordPresenters Kate Scott and Ruud Gullit now pay tribute to those the football world has lost this year, Denis Law, Diogo Jota, and Andre Silva; the brothers’ family are present in the audience.
A video montage is played of some of Diogo Jota’s best moments.
Hannah Hampton: 'It's an achievement for women's goalkeeping'
Monday 22 September 2025 20:46 , Flo CliffordHannah Hampton starts with “a massive thank you to France Football” for introducing the award.
“It’s an achievement for women’s goalkeeping, I stand on the shoulders of so many great goalkeepers of the past.” She says it’s “an honour” to be alongside her fellow nominees and “inspiring the keepers of future generations.” She thanks her family for their sacrifices and driving her around, her coaches throughout her career, and the fans.
She continues with a tribute to former Liverpool manager Matt Beard, who has died aged 47. “The women’s game sadly on Saturday night lost a trailblazer, Matt Beard. He cared a lot for the women’s game when no-one else did. He lit up the room whenever he was in it. Sometimes the brightest smiles hide the biggest pain. No one should have to go through those dark moments alone. He will be greatly missed.”
She ends with a tribute to her grandfather. “I love and miss you everyday, I hope I did you proud, and we did it.”
Hannah Hampton and Gianluigi Donnarumma win Yashin Trophy!
Monday 22 September 2025 20:42 , Flo CliffordEngland’s Hannah Hampton and PSG’s Gianluigi Donnarumma are the winners!
Sarina Wiegman: 'Let's keep uniting our beautiful game'
Monday 22 September 2025 20:41 , Flo CliffordMore from Sarina Wiegman’s speech earlier: “This award means even more because it is named after Johan Cruyff. He believed in the power of sport and believed in every kid having the opportunity to play, to grow and to belong, and that is why I feel so connected with him.
“I would like to say let's keep moving forward, keep uniting our beautiful game and enjoying our beautiful game too. Let's celebrate our successes too. And if Burna Boy's around, let’s do some dancing too.”
Yashin Trophy
Monday 22 September 2025 20:38 , Flo CliffordAnd the men’s nominees:
Alisson Becker (Brazil, Liverpol)
Yassine Bounou (Morocco, Al Hilal)
Lucas Chevalier (France, Lille)
Thibaut Courtois (Belgium, Real Madrid)
Gianluigi Donnarumma (Italy, Paris Saint-Germain)
Emiliano Martínez (Argentina, Aston Villa)
Jan Oblak (Slovenia, Atlético de Madrid)
David Raya (Spain, Arsenal)
Matz Sels (Belgium, Nottingham Forest)
Yann Sommer (Switzerland, Inter)
We’ll have an ad break before we find out who wins...
Women's Yashin Trophy
Monday 22 September 2025 20:35 , Flo CliffordHere are the nominees:
Ann-Katrin Berger (Germany, Gotham FC)
Cata Coll (Spain, Barcelona)
Hannah Hampton (England, Chelsea)
Chiamaka Nnadozie (Nigeria, Paris FC/Brighton)
Daphne van Domselaar (Netherlands, Arsenal)
Women's and Men's Yashin Trophy
Monday 22 September 2025 20:34 , Flo CliffordOnto the awards for the best goalkeepers, with Mary Earps and Gianluigi Buffon presenting. “A massive part of my mission is to make goalkeeping cool,” Earps says, and adds she’s really happy to “celebrate female goalkeeping” after some “difficult conversations” to have the award introduced. It’s the first year for the women’s award and sixth for the men’s.
“Better late than never,” Buffon adds.
Luis Enrique wins Johan Cruyff Trophy
Monday 22 September 2025 20:32 , Flo CliffordLuis Enrique, who won the club’s first Champions League trophy as part of their treble-winning season, is missing the ceremony to be at PSG’s game at Marseille tonight.
He has a message for the players there tonight: “It is nice to win an individual trophy, for you and your family, but I think the most improtant thing is the recognition of the fans and of everyone who loves football.”
Luis Enrique wins Johan Cruyff Trophy
Monday 22 September 2025 20:29 , Flo CliffordFabio Capello pronounces Luis Enrique the winner of the Johan Cruyff Trophy.
Johan Cruyff Trophy
Monday 22 September 2025 20:29 , Flo CliffordOnto the Johan Cruyff Trophy for the best men’s team coach. Antonio Conte (Napoli), Luis Enrique (PSG), Hansi Flick (Barcelona), Enzo Maresca (Chelsea), and Arne Slot (Liverpool) are the nominees.
Sarina Wiegman: 'I see it as recognition of the women's game'
Monday 22 September 2025 20:28 , Flo Clifford“What an honour, after a very special summer with the even more insane tournament we had at the Euros,” Sarina Wiegman says. “I would like to thank the players, the staff, the FA and my family, for the hard work, the trust and the unconditional sipport. Without you I would not be standing here.
“The women’s game has grown so far, we have broken records,” she adds. She thanks Switzerland for hosting the women’s Euros.
This award is not just personal, she says, “I see it as recognition of the women’s game.” With that comes responsibility, she adds: “We have to try to keep our identity, being authentic, inclusive, a place where everyone belongs, and I hope we keep fighting together against misogny and against racism. Football should always, sport should always unite and never divide.”
She pays tribute to Johan Cruyff before saying “a bit of dancing” might be on the cards to celebrate her award.
“Please come back to Holland,” Gullit begs as she prepares to head back to her seat. “I’m staying in England,” she says, to which he replies, “wrong decision”.
Sarina Wiegman wins Women's Johan Cruyff Trophy
Monday 22 September 2025 20:24 , Flo CliffordIt is indeed Sarina Wiegman, or ‘Sabrina’, as Fabio Capello calls her. Oops.
Women's Johan Cruyff Trophy
Monday 22 September 2025 20:23 , Flo CliffordFabio Capello is welcomed onstage to present the women’s Johan Cruyff Trophy, for the best coach.
The nominees are Sonia Bompastor (Chelsea), Arthur Elias (Brazil), Justine Madugu (Nigeria), Renee Slegers (Arsenal), and Sarina Wiegman (England). Surely Sarina Wiegman has got this one?
Best Play of the Year award
Monday 22 September 2025 20:21 , Flo CliffordWe’re onto a new award for this year: Best Play of the Year, voted for by viewers, for the best team action leading to a goal.
The nominees are Brazil, Inter Miami, PSG, Real Madrid, and the Spain men’s team.
The results will actually be revealed later in the week, with voting still open.
How can I watch the Ballon d’Or ceremony?
Monday 22 September 2025 20:19 , Jamie BraidwoodThe event is being broadcast live on TV in the UK but will stream on the Ballon d’Or’s website, ballondor.com.
Vicky Lopez wins Kopa Trophy
Monday 22 September 2025 20:16 , Flo CliffordThe women’s Kopa Trophy goes to Spain and Barcelona’s Vicky Lopez, who beats Michelle Agyemang (England, Brighton), Linda Caicedo (Colombia, Real Madrid), Wieke Kaptein (Netherlands, Chelsea), and Claudia Martínez (Paraguay, Club Olimpia) to the gong.
Lamine Yamal wins Kopa Trophy
Monday 22 September 2025 20:15 , Flo CliffordIt’s the second year running that the 18-year-old has picked up the Kopa Trophy.
“Are you ready for the big one?” Gullit asks. “I don’t know,” Yamal replies modestly.
Lamine Yamal wins Kopa Trophy!
Monday 22 September 2025 20:11 , Flo CliffordBarcelona’s superstar Lamine Yamal is the first to pick up silverware tonight, winning the Kopa Trophy for best young player.
Ceremony underway
Monday 22 September 2025 20:09 , Flo CliffordThe ceremony is underway in the glitzy Théâtre du Châtelet, with Ruud Gullit and Kate Scott presenting. The Kopa Trophy - awarded to the best young player - is the first to be awarded; Raphael Varane will present it.
Here are the nominees:
Ayyoub Bouaddi (France, Lille)
Pau Cubarsí (Spain, Barcelona)
Désiré Doué (France, Paris Saint-Germain)
Estêvão (Brazil, Palmeiras/Chelsea)
Dean Huijsen (Spain, Bournemouth/Real Madrid)
Myles Lewis-Skelly (England, Arsenal)
Rodrigo Mora (Portugal, Porto)
João Neves (Portugal, Paris Saint-Germain)
Lamine Yamal (Spain, Barcelona)
Kenan Yıldız (Türkiye, Juventus)
PSG missing ceremony
Monday 22 September 2025 19:58 , Flo CliffordThe majority of PSG’s nominees are also missing the ceremony, with Sunday’s planned Ligue 1 game against Marseille postponed due to a storm and rescheduled for tonight.
Ousmane Dembele, one of the favourites to win, is able to attend the ceremony as he continues his recovery from a hamstring injury, as is teammate Desiré Doué, who came 14th.
Ballon d'Or awards on the red carpet
Monday 22 September 2025 19:57 , Flo CliffordThe awards themselves have arrived at the Théâtre du Châtelet
The Ballon d'Or are here! #ballondor pic.twitter.com/HYydqeZ4G9
— Ballon d'Or (@ballondor) September 22, 2025
Madrid not in attendance
Monday 22 September 2025 19:55 , Flo CliffordThe red carpet is missing any and all representatives for Real Madrid, who are absent for the ceremony as they were last year. Kylian Mbappe is their only nominee this time round; last year they memorably boycotted the ceremony as they believed their star man Vini Jr had been slighted, having been a heavy favourite to win.
“I haven’t thought about it too much,” Real manager Xabi Alonso said ahead of tonight’s ceremony, with the team instead focusing - or so they say - on Tuesday’s game with Levante.
Women's Club of the Year Trophy 2025
Monday 22 September 2025 19:53 , Jamie BraidwoodChelsea dominated England and Barcelona ruled Spain, but Arsenal’s Champions League triumph may given the Gunners the edge. Arsenal had seven players nominated, to Barcelona’s six.
Nominees
Arsenal (England)
Barcelona (Spain)
Chelsea (England)
OL Lyonnes (France)
Orlando Pride (United States)
Ballon d'Or: Arrivals to the red carpet
Monday 22 September 2025 19:48 , Flo CliffordFour Barcelona players are still in the running for the Women’s Ballon d’Or: 2024 winner Aitana Bonmatí, Patri Guijarro, Ewa Pajor, and Alexia Putellas.
Men's Club of the Year Trophy 2025
Monday 22 September 2025 19:42 , Jamie BraidwoodOne would suspect Paris Saint-Germain’s first European title gives them the edge here. PSG had nine men’s players nominated for the top award.
Nominees
Barcelona (Spain)
Botafogo (Brazil)
Chelsea (England)
Liverpool (England)
Paris Saint-Germain (France)
Click here to read the full blog on The Independent's website
