Ousmane Dembélé has made history by winning the 2025 Ballon d’Or, becoming the first player trained at Rennes to achieve this honor and marking a significant milestone for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).
At just 28 years old, Dembélé led PSG to an unprecedented treble this season, clinching the Ligue 1 title, the Coupe, and the UEFA Champions League, where he was also named the tournament’s best player. His journey from a promising talent at Rennes to a superstar was marred by injuries during his time at Barcelona, but since joining PSG in 2023, he has transformed into a key figure and offensive leader.
During his emotional acceptance speech, Dembélé was visibly moved, shedding tears as he expressed his gratitude. “This is exceptional. It has been an incredible year with Paris Saint-Germain. I’m feeling a bit stressed; it’s not easy to find the words right now. It’s surreal to receive this award from Ronaldinho. I want to thank PSG for bringing me in 2023, the president, my teammates, and the entire club. It feels like family here. President Nasser has been like a father to me, and the staff has been outstanding. Luis Enrique has also played a fatherly role throughout my career, which is far from over. Thank you to my teammates; this individual trophy belongs to our collective effort!”
OUSMANE YOU DID IT! #ballondor pic.twitter.com/0eiclvXuXN
— Ballon d'Or (@ballondor) September 22, 2025
Dembélé went on to acknowledge all the clubs that shaped his career, including Borussia Dortmund, Rennes, and Barcelona, where he had the privilege to play alongside legends like Andrés Iniesta and Lionel Messi. “Winning the Ballon d’Or was never an objective for me, but it feels extraordinary. I worked hard for the team to win the Champions League, and being recognized with an award like this is just incredible. I’m happy tonight!” he said, clearly overwhelmed with joy.
Dembélé’s Emotional Journey to the Top
As he continued, Dembélé expressed his appreciation for the national team and the coaching staff that have supported him throughout his journey. “Thanks to all my national teammates; we’ve grown together. Thank you to the coach for trusting me over the past nine years, especially in this final year as we aim for the World Cup. I also want to thank my hometown of Évreux, where I grew up and kicked my first balls. I’m proud of my roots!”
OUSMANE DEMBÉLÉ 🇫🇷, LE BALLON D’OR 2025, EST EN LARMES 🥹🥹🥹
LE FOOT A GAGNÉ 🌕 #BallonDor
Bravo Ousmane 👏👏👏👏👏 pic.twitter.com/V8ruBNlwHk
— Actu Foot (@ActuFoot_) September 22, 2025
In a heartfelt conclusion, he thanked his family, particularly his mother, who moved him to tears as he spoke about their unwavering support during tough times. “Thanks to my agent who has always believed in me and motivated me. And a huge shoutout to my best friend, who has been by my side through it all. Thank you, everyone!”
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