Aitana Bonmati Makes History, Equals Messi's Legacy with Second Consecutive Ballon d'Or Feminin Triumph

Barcelona Femení sensation Aitana Bonmatí made history by becoming the first footballer to claim the Ballon d'Or Féminin three times following her most recent victory.

The Spanish playmaker had secured the two previous individual accolades after collective success with Barcelona and Spain before achieving her treble at Monday's awards ceremony. Lionel Messi was the previous player to claim three consecutive Ballon d'Or titles, earning four straight from 2009–12. Former French midfielder Michel Platini remains the only other individual to capture the coveted award in three consecutive campaigns (1983–85).

As the reigning champion, Bonmatí's victory comes as little surprise, though the nimble orchestrator didn't receive quite the same widespread recognition as in previous years. Barcelona's domestic supremacy was highlighted by three trophies at home, yet the Catalans suffered two league defeats—matching their total from the previous five campaigns combined.

Following two seasons as the unquestioned focal point of Barcelona and Spain's national squad while Alexia Putellas—herself a two-time Ballon d'Or recipient—rehabilitated from an ACL injury, Bonmatí needed to adapt to a fresh dynamic alongside her fellow countryman.

This enviable situation still witnessed both athletes reach double figures in goals and assists as Barcelona advanced to the Champions League final for the fifth consecutive season. Nevertheless, after two straight championships, Bonmatí and her squad were shocked by a resolute Arsenal team that secured a 1–0 victory in Lisbon.

Bonmatí would experience disappointment against English opponents two months afterward, watching in dismay as her penalty attempt was denied in Spain's shootout loss to England in the Euro 2025 final.

However, the mere fact that Bonmatí participated demonstrates her resilient spirit. The 27-year-old prepared for the competition from a hospital bed while receiving treatment for viral meningitis. In characteristic determined style, Bonmatí recovered sufficiently to enter as a substitute in the opening group match and had reclaimed her starting position by the elimination rounds.

It was Bonmatí's wicked strike from an improbable position that deflected past Germany's Ann-Katrin Berger for the decisive semifinal goal. UEFA's technical panel joined others in naming her Tournament Player.

Following the Euro 2025 final, Bonmatí addressed the press directly. "I'm stunned," she stated. "We left everything on the field. I must say sorry for missing my penalty and congratulate England." However, as everyone throughout Spain was eager to emphasize, Bonmatí had nothing to apologize for.