Paris Saint-Germain forward Ousmane Dembélé has been crowned the 2025 Ballon d’Or winner, capping a remarkable season in which he played a pivotal role in guiding the French champions to their first-ever UEFA Champions League title and a domestic double.
The 28-year-old edged out other top contenders after a campaign that saw him deliver decisive goals and assists on the biggest stages, making him PSG’s first player in history to lift football’s most prestigious individual award.
Tearful during his acceptance speech in Paris on Monday night, Dembélé dedicated the award to his family and the club’s fans, saying: “This is for Paris, for my teammates, and for everyone who never stopped believing in me.
For Dembélé, whose career was once plagued by injuries and doubts, the Ballon d’Or win represents redemption. His resurgence in Paris has silenced critics and elevated him to the pinnacle of world football.
The Frenchman’s victory is not only a personal milestone but also a moment of pride for Black players and fans worldwide, celebrating decades of contributions to the sport’s highest levels.
