Ousmane Dembele Claims Football's Ultimate Prize with Stunning 2025 Ballon d'Or Victory

Paris Saint-Germain winger Ousmane Dembélé has been declared the recipient of the 2025 men's Ballon d'Or award.

The Parisian club's league supremacy and journey to European Cup triumph positioned PSG as strong contenders to produce this year's laureate. Although fullback Achraf Hakimi and playmaker Vitinha were mentioned as potential winners, Dembélé had emerged as one of the leading candidates over recent months, competing closely with Barcelona's Lamine Yamal, who secured runner-up position.

At age 28, Dembélé delivered his finest campaign during the 2024–25 season. He started the year in his traditional position on PSG's right flank but was swiftly converted to a central striker role by coach Luis Enrique, a tactical switch that proved brilliant.

Across Ligue 1 matches, Dembélé netted 21 times and provided eight assists across 29 outings, claiming a share of the league's golden boot while earning selection to the season's best XI. However, his European performances truly elevated his Ballon d'Or candidacy.

The French star was pivotal to PSG's continental triumph, contributing eight strikes while finding the net against elite clubs including Manchester City, Liverpool and Arsenal.

Beyond his goalscoring exploits in Europe, Dembélé excelled as a provider. He concluded the season with six assists, notably setting up the winning strike in the semifinal triumph over Arsenal and contributing to two of the five goals scored in the final against Inter.

"Claiming a Ballon d'Or as a professional footballer represents the ultimate individual achievement," Dembélé shared with France Football in June. "It's what you fantasize about as a child.

"I recall watching on Téléfoot, seeing players step forward to collect the Ballon d'Or - it was mesmerizing. The trophy itself, that golden sphere, is truly remarkable."