Women’s Football: Bellingham, Yamal, Haaland, Bonmati Stars
Ballon d’Or 2025: Nominees Revealed for Football’s Most Prestigious Award
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The pursuit of footballing glory has officially begun as France Football unveiled the nominees for the 2025 Ballon d’Or on thursday. the shortlist announcement, made via the L’Equipe website and app, includes the biggest names in the men’s and women‘s game, recognizing standout performances from the 2024-25 season.
This year’s Ballon d’Or – first awarded in 1956 - continues its expanded format, celebrating not only the best male and female footballers but also emerging talents, goalkeepers, coaches, clubs, and those making a humanitarian impact in the sport.This holistic approach underscores the award’s commitment to recognizing all facets of the beatiful game.
Men’s Ballon d’Or: Newcomers and Icons Vie for the Crown
The 30 nominees for the Men’s Ballon d’Or represent a thrilling blend of established superstars and exciting young talents. Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham, already a fan favorite at the Bernabéu, is a strong contender after a stellar season.Barcelona prodigy Lamine Yamal, showcasing breathtaking skill and maturity beyond his years, also features prominently. Manchester City’s Erling Haaland, a goal-scoring machine, remains a formidable force in the running.
Alongside these rising stars, seasoned veterans like Robert Lewandowski, Harry Kane, and Kylian Mbappé – now donning the white of Real Madrid – bring a wealth of experience and proven track record to the competition. the presence of these icons guarantees a captivating battle for the coveted prize.
Paris Saint-Germain boasts a important presence on the shortlist, with Ousmane Dembélé, Achraf Hakimi, and the electrifying young sensation Désiré Doué all in contention. The English Premier League is also well-represented, with Declan Rice, Cole Palmer, and Mohamed Salah all making the cut, highlighting the league’s continued dominance in world football.
Full list of nominees:
Ousmane Dembélé, Jude Bellingham, Désiré Doué, Denzel Dumfries, Guirassy Systems, Erling Haaland, Viktor Gyokeres, Achraf Hakimi, Harry Kane, João Neves, Cole Palmer, Michael Olise, Raphinha, Declan Rice, Mohamed Salah, Florian Wirtz, Vitinha, Vinícius Júnior, Virgil van Dijk.
Women’s Ballon d’Or: Spanish Dominance and Global Talent
The Women’s Ballon d’Or nominations are spearheaded by a powerful spanish contingent, led by reigning champion Aitana Bonmatí, the supremely talented Alexia Putellas, and the dynamic Claudia Pina, all from FC Barcelona.Their collective brilliance reflects the growing strength of Spanish women’s football on the international stage.
The list also includes legendary figures like Marta, whose enduring impact on the game continues to inspire, alongside emerging stars such as Barbra Banda and Melchie Dumornay, showcasing the global expansion of women’s football talent.
Premier league clubs Arsenal and Chelsea are strongly represented, with Leah Williamson, Lucy Bronze, Chloe Kelly, and Hannah Hampton all nominated, demonstrating the increasing competitiveness and quality of the WSL.
Other nominees:
Lucy bronze, Barbra Banda, Aitana Bonmatí, Sandy Baltimore, Mariona Caldentey, Klara Bühl, Sofia Cantore, Steph Catley, Melchie Dumornay, Temwa Chawinga, Emily Fox, Cristiana Girelli, Esther González, Caroline Graham Hansen, Patri Guijarro, Amanda Gutierres, Hannah Hampton, Pernille Harder, Lindsey Horan, Chloe Kelly, Marta, frida Maanum, Ewa Pajor, Clara Mateo, Alessia Russo, Claudia Pina, Alexia Putellas, Johanna Kaneryd, Caroline weir, Leah Williamson.
What’s Next? The Road to Paris
The winners of the Ballon d’Or 2025 will be announced at a grand ceremony later this year in Paris. The event promises to be a breathtaking festivity of footballing excellence, recognizing the achievements of the world’s best players.
With a compelling mix of breakout talents and established legends, this year’s edition is poised to be one of the most competitive and captivating in recent memory. The anticipation is building as fans eagerly await the unveiling of the 2025 Ballon d’Or winners.
Stay tuned for further updates and exclusive coverage as we follow