Ousmane Dembele claimed the evening’s highest honour, finishing ahead of Lamine Yamal after registering 35 goals and 16 assists en route to a historic treble with the Parisians. ..Continue Reading
Yamal, however, didn’t walk away empty-handed—he made history as the first player to secure the KOPA trophy in consecutive years, an award recognising the top under-21 talent.
Gyokeres also earned recognition, with the Arsenal forward receiving the Gerd Muller Award as the best striker in the world for 2025.
Although his departure from Lisbon earlier this year stirred controversy, the Swedish striker took a moment to acknowledge his former team during his speech.
“We had a fantastic season with both league and cup titles, and incredible memories that were created. Standing here tonight feels wonderful.
“I have always had a hunger to score goals and this is a nice recognition,” he added.
His win may have felt even more satisfying after the reception he got on the red carpet, where a Chelsea supporter recorded himself taunting the striker.
The video shows the fan shouting: “Champions of Europe, you’ll never sing that, CHELSEA, CHELSEA. CHELSEA.”
Even though the chant was clearly audible, Gyokeres didn’t respond and instead took time to greet fans and sign autographs.
Since joining the Premier League, Gyokeres has made a solid start, netting three goals in his first five matches, including two against Leeds.
He placed 15th in the final Ballon d’Or rankings, finishing ahead of Vinicius Jr, who was last year’s runner-up and also ranked 15th this time.
2025 Men’s Ballon d’Or Top 10:
1 – Ousmane Dembélé (PSG)
2 – Lamine Yamal (BAR)
3 – Vitinha (PSG)
4 – Mohamed Salah (LIV)
5 – Raphinha (BAR)
6 – Achraf Hakimi (PSG)
7 – Kylian Mbappé (RMA)
8 – Cole Palmer (CHE)
9 – Gianluigi Donnarumma (PSG)
10 – Nuno Mendes (PSG)
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