The 2025 Ballon d'Or ceremony has concluded, and while new names have been etched into the trophy, the legacy of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo continues to loom large. The shadow of their decade-long dominance still influences how individual excellence is perceived and celebrated in football.
This year, Ousmane Dembélé was crowned the Men's Ballon d'Or winner after leading Paris Saint-Germain to a historic Champions League title. Aitana Bonmatí secured the Women's Ballon d'Or for the third consecutive time, marking her dominance in the women's game. Other notable awards included Lamine Yamal winning the Kopa Trophy for best young male player and Vicky López winning the Kopa Trophy for best young female player. Gianluigi Donnarumma and Hannah Hampton won the Yashin Trophies for best male and female goalkeepers, respectively. Luis Enrique and Sarina Wiegman won the Johan Cruyff awards for best coaches in the men's and women's game. Viktor Gyökeres and Ewa Pajor claimed the Gerd Müller awards for most goals scored. Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal were named Club of the Year for the men's and women's categories respectively.
For over a decade, the Ballon d'Or was synonymous with Messi and Ronaldo. Together, they claimed 13 titles, with Messi holding a record eight and Ronaldo securing five. Their fierce rivalry pushed each player to unprecedented heights, captivating fans and redefining the standards of excellence. Their era saw the award become a two-horse race, sparking endless debates about who truly deserved the title of the world's best.
Messi's eight Ballon d'Or wins reflect his consistency and impact on the biggest stages. His victories in 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019, 2021 and 2023 showcase his enduring brilliance. Ronaldo's five awards, earned in 2008, 2013, 2014, 2016 and 2017, highlight his athleticism, goal-scoring prowess, and leadership across different leagues.
Their dominance transformed the Ballon d'Or into a global spectacle, with each award ceremony eagerly anticipated by fans worldwide. The Messi-Ronaldo rivalry transcended individual accolades, influencing the sport in profound ways and setting new benchmarks for aspiring players.
Even with the emergence of new stars like Dembélé and Bonmatí, the Messi-Ronaldo era remains a significant point of reference. Their achievements continue to inspire and cast a long shadow over the current generation. As football evolves, the legacy of Messi and Ronaldo serves as a reminder of the dedication, talent, and fierce competition required to reach the pinnacle of the sport. Their impact on the Ballon d'Or is undeniable, shaping its history and setting a standard that future generations will strive to match.
