Dembele wins 2025 ballon d’or
Agency Report
In an evening brimming with emotion, history, and celebration, Ousmane Dembélé has claimed football’s ultimate individual honour, being named the 2025 Ballon d’Or winner. The Paris Saint-Germain forward, once considered a story of unfulfilled promise, has now ascended to the pinnacle of world football, becoming the sixth Frenchman to lift the coveted trophy
The 28-year-old’s 2024/25 season was nothing short of sensational. Dembélé spearheaded PSG to their first-ever UEFA Champions League triumph, complementing the achievement with a domestic double in Ligue 1 and the Coupe de France. His tally of 35 goals across all competitions, coupled with decisive assists and match-defining performances, propelled him past Barcelona’s teenage prodigy Lamine Yamal and PSG teammate Vitinha, who finished second and third respectively.
Overcome with emotion at the Théâtre du Châtelet, Dembélé dedicated the accolade to his teammates, coach Luis Enrique, family, and the unwavering PSG supporters. “Personal awards were never my obsession,” he admitted. “To hold this Ballon d’Or is truly extraordinary. It belongs to Paris, to France, and to everyone who believed in me.”
A career marked by resilience
Born on 15 May 1997 in Vernon, France, Dembélé’s journey has been defined by extraordinary talent and repeated trials. Emerging from Rennes’ academy, he quickly distinguished himself with blistering pace, inventive dribbling, and creativity. A high-profile transfer to Borussia Dortmund in 2016 cemented his status as one of Europe’s brightest young talents before he moved to Barcelona a year later.
However, persistent injuries and inconsistent form at Barcelona raised doubts about his potential. The move to Paris Saint-Germain in 2023, under the tutelage of Luis Enrique, revitalised his career. Today, Dembélé is not only a prolific scorer but also a respected leader and match-winner.
A historic legacy
By claiming the Ballon d’Or, Dembélé joins French legends such as Michel Platini, Zinedine Zidane, and Karim Benzema. Beyond the trophy, this achievement represents a story of resilience, determination, and ultimate redemption, a testament to a talent once doubted but now celebrated worldwide.
Dembélé’s triumph underscores the transformative power of perseverance and the impact of strategic career moves. His journey serves as a blueprint for young players facing setbacks: talent alone is not enough; belief, discipline, and the right environment are crucial for success. we celebrate Ousmane Dembélé, the boy from Vernon who rose against all odds to become the world’s finest footballer.
