The 2025 Ballon d’Or ceremony has recognized outstanding talent in the football world, with Ousmane Dembélé winning the prestigious award after leading Paris Saint-Germain to their first Champions League title. On the women’s side, Aitana Bonmatí has claimed the award for the third consecutive year.

This year’s Ballon d’Or rankings have showcased several notable performers, including Mohamed Salah, who has climbed to fourth place. The 33-year-old Egyptian striker has continued to impress with Liverpool, scoring 29 goals in 38 league appearances to help the team lift the title last season. Salah’s success is a testament to his effectiveness and longevity in the game, and his presence at the top is a significant milestone for African players.

Achraf Hakimi, a 26-year-old Paris Saint-Germain defender, has also made a strong impression, securing a sixth-place finish. His performance underscores the growing recognition of African defenders in the prestigious awards. Another notable mention is Serhou Guirassy from Borussia Dortmund, who finished 21st. While he may not have reached the podium, his performances have solidified his status as a key figure in the African football scene.

The presence of African players at the Ballon d’Or is a significant trend, with two players in the top 10 this year. This emphasizes that African footballers are not only emerging talents but also established stars competing at the highest levels of international football. The increasing diversity of talent represented in the awards is a positive development for the sport.

The success of African players at the Ballon d’Or reflects the growing influence of African football on the global stage. With more African players competing in top European leagues, their talent and skills are being recognized internationally. This trend is expected to continue, with African players likely to play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of international football.