2025 Ballon d’Or Ceremony Highlights: Winners Announced in Paris

PARIS, France – The 2025 Ballon d'Or ceremony commenced on September 22 at the Théâtre du Châtelet, where football’s biggest stars gathered to celebrate the sport’s top achievements. This year’s event marks the 69th edition of the prestigious awards, which recognizes exceptional players, coaches, and performances from the previous season worldwide.

The ceremony, hosted by CBS Sports’ Kate Scott and Ruud Gullit, began with the introduction of winners across various categories. The Men’s and Women’s Ballon d’Or winners will be announced later in the evening, alongside other prestigious awards like the Yashin Trophy, which celebrates the best goalkeepers, and the Johan Cruyff Trophy for the best coaches.

Lamine Yamal of Barcelona opened the night by receiving the Kopa Trophy, awarded to the best player in the world under 21. He expressed his gratitude, saying, “Firstly, thank you to France Football for the award. It’s an honour to be here again.” Yamal’s performance last season included notable contributions to Barcelona’s domestic successes.

Paris Saint-Germain‘s Luis Enrique won the men’s Johan Cruyff Trophy, though he was not present to accept it, as his team faced a match against Marseille simultaneously. Enrique led PSG to a domestic double and their first UEFA Champions League title, a significant milestone for the club.

England‘s Sarina Wiegman received the women’s Johan Cruyff Trophy after her team, the Lionesses, defended their European crown in a thrilling victory over Spain.

The men’s Yashin Trophy was awarded to Gianluigi Donnarumma, while the first-ever women’s Yashin Trophy went to Hannah Hampton, both recognized for their exceptional goalkeeping skills.

As the evening unfolds, several awards will continue to be presented. The anticipation grows for the announcement of the top Ballon d’Or winners, with Ousmane Dembélé of PSG and Lamine Yamal of Barcelona among the favorites for the men’s award. The women’s category remains unpredictable, with nominees like Aitana Bonmatí and Alexia Putellas contending for the honor.

Fans can follow the live updates and continue to engage with reactions from the ceremony on various platforms throughout the night.