PARIS: French star Ousmane Dembele has etched his name into football history by winning the 2025 Men’s Ballon d’Or, capping off a remarkable season that brought Paris Saint-Germain their maiden UEFA Champions League crown.
At 28 years of age, Dembele stood tall among the world’s elite, outpacing Barcelona’s prodigy Lamine Yamal and PSG teammate Vitinha to claim football’s most prestigious individual honor. His explosive season — boasting 37 goals and 15 assists — became the cornerstone of PSG’s treble chase, which included a domestic double alongside European glory.
Dembele’s brilliance was further recognized as he was named UEFA Champions League Player of the Season, underscoring his influence on the pitch. His performances in crunch moments, particularly during the Champions League run, showcased a level of maturity, consistency, and leadership that silenced critics and thrilled fans worldwide.
The glittering ceremony also honored other outstanding performers of the year. Lamine Yamal lifted the Kopa Trophy as the best young player, while PSG’s shot-stopper Gianluigi Donnarumma secured the Yashin Trophy for best goalkeeper. PSG manager Luis Enrique claimed the Johan Cruyff Trophy as the year’s best coach, with Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyökeres awarded the Gerd Müller Trophy for top scorer. PSG themselves were crowned Club of the Year, marking a season of dominance.
For Dembele, this accolade is more than just individual recognition — it is a testament to his resilience, evolution, and ability to rise when it mattered most. From injury setbacks earlier in his career to now being the face of PSG’s historic success, his journey has come full circle.
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