The stage is set once again for football’s most prestigious individual honour as the Ballon d’Or ceremony returns to Paris on September 22, 2025.
With the season nearing its climax, the race for the golden ball is heating up—and this year, the competition is as fierce and wide open as ever.
Among the standout performers this season is Barcelona’s electric winger, Raphinha, who has dazzled fans with his creativity and goal contributions in La Liga and Europe.
Alongside him, teenage sensation Lamine Yamal has continued to defy his age, delivering game-changing performances that have seen him rise rapidly in the global football ranks.
In the Premier League, Declan Rice has emerged as a midfield powerhouse for Arsenal, dictating play and leading the Gunners’ charge in both domestic and continental competitions.
His consistency and leadership have earned him plaudits across the footballing world.
Over in France, PSG’s Dombele has become the heartbeat of Luis Enrique’s side, combining flair with tactical discipline in the midfield—a key figure in the club’s push for both Ligue 1 and Champions League glory.
Also shining for the French champions is Kylian Mbappé, whose explosive pace, goal-scoring prowess, and leadership have once again made him one of the most feared forwards in world football.
The 2022 World Cup Golden Boot winner remains a strong contender for his first Ballon d’Or.
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Mohamed Salah continues to be Liverpool’s talisman, scoring and assisting at a relentless pace.
Despite being one of the more experienced names in the race, Salah’s hunger for greatness has not diminished.
From Serie A, Lautaro Martínez has led Inter Milan’s frontline with clinical precision, playing a pivotal role in the Nerazzurri’s title ambitions and European campaign.
His goalscoring form has not gone unnoticed.
With other stars across Europe also making strong cases, including standout performers from Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Manchester City, the question remains:
Who deserves to win the 2025 Ballon d’Or?
As the countdown begins to the glittering ceremony in Paris, fans and pundits alike are weighing their picks. Will it be youth over experience, flair over consistency, or goals over all else?