Paris lit up on Monday evening as football’s biggest stars gathered for one of the most glamorous nights in the sport.
At the heart of it all was Ousmane Dembele, who walked away with the prestigious men’s Ballon d’Or after a season to remember.
The Paris Saint-Germain forward’s stunning performances helped him edge out Barcelona’s rising star, Lamine Yamal, in a ceremony filled with glitter, cameras, and football legends.
Dembele’s Incredible Season
At 28, Dembele’s season was nothing short of extraordinary.
He found the back of the net 35 times and assisted 16 goals over 53 games, helping PSG capture multiple trophies, including their first-ever Champions League title.
In addition to the Ballon d’Or, Dembele was also named Player of the Season in the Champions League.
‘It was an exceptional year,’ Dembele said, accepting the trophy from the legendary Ronaldinho. ‘The collective effort won.’
Young Talent Shines
While Dembele took the men’s crown, 18-year-old Lamine Yamal was recognized as the next big star in football, winning the Kopa Trophy for Young Player of the Year. The teenager’s rise at Barcelona has been meteoric, and this award further cements his status as a future superstar.
PSG’s Squad and Storm-Delayed Matches
Nine players from PSG’s squad last season had been nominated for the Ballon d’Or, though most couldn’t attend the ceremony due to a rescheduled Ligue 1 match against Marseille.
Originally set as the ‘El Classique’ fixture, the game was postponed because of storm warnings, in line with league regulations.
Fortunately for fans, Dembele was able to attend despite his own injury.
British Players Make Their Mark
The Premier League’s best performers also featured prominently on the shortlist.
Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah came fourth after a stellar season, while England’s Declan Rice, Jude Bellingham, Cole Palmer, and Harry Kane were also nominated.
Scotland’s Scott McTominay made the cut in 18th place.
Women’s Ballon d’Or Dominated by Barcelona and England
In the women’s game, Barcelona’s Aitana Bonmati claimed the Ballon d’Or for the third consecutive year.
Arsenal’s Mariona Caldentey finished second, and Alessia Russo came third.
Following England’s triumphant Euro campaign, five Lionesses featured among the top contenders, including captain Leah Williamson, shoot-out hero Chloe Kelly, and Russo.
Chelsea’s Hannah Hampton took home the Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award.
Coaches Receive Top Honors
Sarina Wiegman, head coach of the Lionesses, was awarded the Johan Cruyff Trophy as the best coach in the women’s game.
On stage, she was playfully urged by Ruud Gullit to ‘please come back to Holland.’
In the men’s game, Luis Enrique earned the Best Coach award, triumphing over Arne Slot, Antonio Conte, Enzo Maresca, and Hansi Flick.
A Celebration of Football’s Finest
From record-breaking goals and assists to groundbreaking leadership on the pitch, the Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris celebrated the best in men’s and women’s football.
With Dembele and Bonmati taking center stage, it was a night that highlighted both seasoned stars and rising talent, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the next chapter in football’s ongoing story.