Credits: IMAGO / ZUMA Press Wire

Ousmane Dembele Crowned Men’s Ballon d’Or 2025 Winner

Credits: IMAGO / ZUMA Press Wire

Ousmane Dembele has completed the turnaround of his career by winning the 2025 Men’s Ballon d’Or. The Paris Saint-Germain forward enjoyed a record-breaking season last term. He led his club to a historic treble and secured his place among the greatest names in football.

At 28, Dembele had the most prolific campaign of his career. Once considered an unfulfilled talent after a frustrating spell at Barcelona, he has flourished back in France. Under Luis Enrique’s guidance, he evolved and his progress transformed PSG’s attack. It helped deliver their first Champions League crown.

Ladies and gentlemen, Ousmane Dembélé is your 2025 Ballon d'Or winner! 💫🏆#ballondor https://t.co/RJfitE94Aj pic.twitter.com/t712ONjp16
— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) September 22, 2025

A Career-Best Season for Ousmane Dembele

Dembele scored 35 goals and added 14 assists in 53 appearances last season with decisive contributions domestically and in Europe. He was joint top scorer in the French league with 21 goals. He was also named both Ligue 1 and Champions League Player of the Year. Dembele’s Champions League campaign was especially remarkable.

He netted eight goals and provided crucial assists against elite opponents like Manchester City, Liverpool, and Arsenal. Reflecting on a possible award win, Dembele told L’Equipe back in June, “Winning a Ballon d’Or when you’re a football player is obviously the Holy Grail individually. It’s something you dream about when you’re little.”

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

At the Paris ceremony, Dembele was visibly emotional as he collected the award from Ronaldinho. After receiving the award, showing his gratitude and appreciation, he said, “What I have just experienced is exceptional, I have no words for it. PSG is like an incredible family. This individual trophy is one the team has won collectively.”

From Nearly Forgotten to French Football Glory

The Ballon d’Or caps off a remarkable revival for Dembele. He could not manage to reach double figures in league goals since his teenage years at Rennes. PSG bought him in 2023 from Barcelona for just £43.5m. The fee now looks like a bargain given his market value has since soared.

Also Read: PSG Steal the Spotlight With Historic Sweep in Ballon d’Or 2025

He became only the sixth Frenchman to win the Ballon d’Or. He is following legends like Karim Benzema, Zinedine Zidane, Michel Platini, Jean-Pierre Papin, and Raymond Kopa. He is also just the second PSG player to take home the trophy after Lionel Messi in 2023.

Dembele edged out Barcelona’s teenage prodigy Lamine Yamal. The youngster finished second but retained the Kopa Trophy. Vitinha placed third, with Mohamed Salah and Raphinha rounding out the top five. With his resurgence, Dembele has etched his name in the history of French football.

Ballon d’Or 2025

Ousmane Dembele

PSG

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.