In a poll conducted by TNT Sports, supporters were asked to vote for who they believe deserves the prestigious award this year. ..Continue Reading
While the official winner will be announced in late September, the fan vote has revealed a tight race at the top and a rising star just behind.
Topping the poll were Ousmane Dembélé and Mohamed Salah, who finished in a dead heat with 28% of the votes each.
Dembélé’s incredible season with Paris Saint-Germain saw him rack up 35 goals and 16 assists, helping the French giants secure a historic treble, including their first-ever Champions League title.
Meanwhile, Salah was instrumental in Liverpool’s charge to a 20th league title, contributing 29 goals and 18 assists — tying the record for most goal involvements in a Premier League season.
Just behind them, in third place, was Lamine Yamal, Barcelona’s teenage sensation. At only 18 years old, Yamal has dazzled fans with his maturity, creativity, and consistency.
Though he earned just 12% of the fan vote, his performances have positioned him as a future Ballon d’Or contender.
While he may not yet be the youngest winner in history, he’s widely expected to retain the Kopa Trophy for best young player.
With previous top contenders like Jude Bellingham and Vinícius Júnior struggling this season, and current holder Rodri missing out due to injury, the 2025 Ballon d’Or race feels refreshingly open.
Whether the fans’ favorites align with the final decision remains to be seen, but one thing is clear — the next generation, led by Yamal, is already making its mark.
