Paris Saint-Germain forward Ousmane Dembélé has been crowned the winner of the 2025 men’s Ballon d’Or, capping off the best season of his career and cementing his place among football’s elite.
The 28-year-old French international edged out Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, who finished second, to become the latest PSG player to lift the prestigious award. Dembélé’s triumph reflects both PSG’s domestic dominance and their long-awaited Champions League success.
Initially deployed on the right wing, Dembélé was repositioned as a striker by manager Luis Enrique, a tactical gamble that proved decisive. He flourished in the new role, recording 21 goals and eight assists in just 29 Ligue 1 matches. His tally saw him share the Golden Boot while also earning a spot in the Ligue 1 Team of the Year.
Yet it was in Europe where Dembélé truly shone. He scored eight goals in the Champions League, striking against heavyweights Manchester City, Liverpool and Arsenal.
In addition to his finishing, he was also a creator, providing six assists, including the decisive pass in PSG’s semifinal win over Arsenal and two assists in the emphatic 5–1 final victory over Inter Milan.
“Winning a Ballon d’Or when you’re a football player is obviously the Holy Grail individually,” Dembélé told France Football.
“It’s something you dream about when you’re little. Just to hold it is exceptional.”
PSG teammates Achraf Hakimi and Vitinha had also been considered strong contenders after stellar campaigns, but Dembélé’s consistency and decisive contributions on the biggest stage made him the clear winner.
