Aitana Bonmati, the 27-year-old Barcelona and Spain midfielder, has once again been crowned the best female footballer in the world, winning the 2025 Ballon d'Or Feminin. The award ceremony, held at the Theatre du Chatelet in Paris on September 22, saw Bonmati receive the trophy from Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta, making the night even more special for the Catalan club. This marks Bonmati's third consecutive Ballon d'Or victory, a feat that places her in an exclusive club alongside Michel Platini (1983-85) and Lionel Messi (2009-12) as the only players, male or female, to win the prestigious award in three successive years.
Bonmati's journey to this historic achievement was not without its challenges. She had to overcome a serious health scare earlier in 2025, when she was diagnosed with viral meningitis and spent time in the hospital. Despite the setback, she fought her way back to fitness in time for the UEFA Women's Euro 2025, where she played a crucial role in guiding Spain to the final. Although Spain lost to England on penalties, Bonmati was named Player of the Tournament, capping off her comeback with a stunning long-range goal against Germany in the semifinals that eliminated the two-time champions.
A historic night for Barcelona and women's football
Bonmati's victory continues Barcelona's remarkable dominance in the women's game. The Ballon d'Or Feminin has been awarded annually since 2018, and Barcelona players have now won five of the seven editions. Alexia Putellas won back-to-back awards in 2021 and 2022, and Bonmati has taken the baton since 2023. In the last five years, Barcelona has produced nine podium finishes, an unparalleled record in women's football. The 2025 podium was particularly notable for Spanish representation: former Barcelona forward Mariona Caldentey finished second after inspiring Arsenal to their first Women's Champions League title in 18 years, while England's Alessia Russo took third. Alexia Putellas placed fourth, ensuring Barcelona had multiple players in the top ranks.
Bonmati's 2024-25 season: Domestic treble and near European glory
The 2024-25 campaign was a testament to Bonmati's consistency and quality. She played a pivotal role in Barcelona's domestic treble, winning Liga F, the Copa de la Reina, and the Supercopa de España. Over 44 appearances across all competitions, she scored 15 goals and provided 12 assists, numbers that underline her influence as both a goalscorer and creator. Barcelona also reached the Women's Champions League final for the fifth consecutive year, but fell short against Arsenal, losing 1-0 in Lisbon. Despite the defeat, Bonmati's performances throughout the tournament were exemplary, and she was widely praised for her leadership and technical ability.
International impact and recognition
On the international stage, Bonmati continued to be the driving force for Spain. After winning the 2023 Women's World Cup, she helped Spain reach the Euro 2025 final, where they were edged out by England in a penalty shootout. Her individual brilliance earned her the Player of the Tournament award, and her semifinal goal against Germany was a moment of pure quality—a long-range strike that left the German goalkeeper stranded. Bonmati's ability to perform under pressure and her resilience in overcoming illness have made her an inspiration to many.
Bonmati's speech: Gratitude and humility
Upon receiving the award from Andres Iniesta, Bonmati delivered an emotional speech. 'My third time in a row here, and I still can't believe it. Incredible. Thank you to France Football for this, for the third time – it really could have gone to anyone,' she said. 'If it was possible to share it I would, because I think it has been a year with an exceptionally high level, above all among my teammates, who had a great year. Also, to receive it from the hands of Andres Iniesta, one of my idols since I was little, alongside Xavi. I learned my football from them – to this day, I thank them for all that they have taught me. Thank you to them for everything that they have done in football.' She added, 'I owe Barcelona everything – this is the club of my life. I hope to represent this badge for many more years.'
Context: The Ballon d'Or Feminin and its evolution
The Ballon d'Or Feminin was first awarded in 2018, when Norwegian striker Ada Hegerberg won the inaugural prize. Since then, the award has grown in prestige, reflecting the rapid development of women's football worldwide. Hegerberg won again in 2019, while 2020 was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Alexia Putellas won in 2021 and 2022, establishing Barcelona's dominance. Bonmati's three-peat has now set a new standard for excellence in the women's game. The award is decided by a jury of international journalists, who vote on a shortlist of 30 players based on their performances over the previous season.
Barcelona's golden era
Barcelona's success in women's football can be attributed to a combination of factors: investment in youth development, a winning mentality, and a playing style that emphasizes possession and creativity. The club's women's team, known as Barça Femení, has become a powerhouse in Spain and Europe. In addition to Bonmati and Putellas, players like Mariona Caldentey, Caroline Graham Hansen, and Fridolina Rolfö have all been Ballon d'Or nominees. The team's ability to dominate both domestically and continentally has made them a benchmark for the sport.
The 2025 Ballon d'Or ceremony also recognized achievements in men's football. PSG forward Ousmane Dembélé won the men's award, with Barcelona's teenage sensation Lamine Yamal finishing second. This year's winners underline the global talent pool in football and the continued success of Spanish and Catalan players. Bonmati's third Ballon d'Or is not just a personal triumph but a reflection of the investment and dedication that has made women's football more competitive and exciting than ever.
Looking ahead, Bonmati will be key to Barcelona's ambitions next season, as they aim to reclaim the Champions League trophy and continue their domestic dominance. Her ability to control the midfield, score crucial goals, and inspire her teammates makes her indispensable. With three Ballon d'Ors already to her name at just 27, the question is not if she will win more, but how many she can accumulate before her career ends. For now, she stands alone in women's football history as the first to achieve a three-peat, and her legacy continues to grow.
Source:Yahoo Sports News