Credits: IMAGO / Photo Players Images

Ballon d’Or 2025: Lamine Yamal Makes History with Second Consecutive Kopa Trophy

Credits: IMAGO / Photo Players Images

Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal has etched his name into football history. He has become the first player ever to win the Kopa Trophy in consecutive years. The 18-year-old picked up the prestigious award at the 69th Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris.

He has certainly cemented his reputation as one of the brightest young stars in world football. The Kopa Trophy, awarded annually by France Football, honours the best male footballer under the age of 21. The trophy was first introduced in 2018.

Back to back!
Lamine Yamal wins the 𝗞𝗼𝗽𝗮 𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗵𝘆 AGAIN. 🏆 pic.twitter.com/uVpVofTDYi
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) September 22, 2025

Since then, it had always gone to a new winner, until Yamal broke tradition. He won it ahead of Paris Saint-Germain’s Desire Doue and Joao Neves. On receiving the award, Yamal expressed his gratitude and acknowledged his teammates Pau Cubarsi and Raphinha, who joined him in Paris.

Upon receiving the award, he said, “Thank you very much to France Football for the prize, I’m proud to be back here. I want to thank FC Barcelona and the Spain team, I wouldn’t be here today without them. I hope to keep working and doing much more.”

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A Record-Breaking Season for Lamine Yamal

Yamal’s second Kopa Trophy is the culmination of a remarkable 2024-25 campaign for the youngster. Under Hansi Flick, he was instrumental in Barcelona’s domestic treble. He scored 18 goals and delivered over 20 assists in 55 appearances. His creativity and flair made him the heartbeat of Barca’s attack.

Even opposition players singled him out as their toughest rival. Ahead of last season’s Champions League final, several Inter Milan players unanimously named Yamal as their hardest opponent. His brilliance was not limited to club football. With Spain, he played a pivotal role in their run to the UEFA Nations League final.

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Barcelona Kopa Trophy Dominance

Yamal’s consecutive win also showcases Barcelona’s stronghold on the award. Out of the seven editions, Barca players have now claimed the trophy four times – Pedri in 2021, Gavi in 2022, and Yamal in 2024 and 2025. La Masia continues to set the benchmark for nurturing world-class talent. It was a landmark year for the Kopa Trophy.

This year also saw the introduction of the women’s edition, won by Barcelona’s Vicky Lopez. It marked a double celebration for the Catalan giants. At just 18, Yamal remains eligible for the award for another three years. If his trajectory continues, his back-to-back wins might only be the beginning of a record-breaking legacy.

Ballon d’Or 2025

Barcelona

Kopa Trophy

Lamine Yamal

Moumita Dutta

soccer

Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.