Ousmane Dembélé and Aitana Bonmatí were named FIFA World Players of the Year 2025 during the awards gala held in Doha, marking a night that confirmed the dominance of both footballers after outstanding seasons. The FC Barcelona midfielder claimed the women’s award for the third consecutive year, firmly establishing herself as one of the most influential figures in modern football, while the Paris Saint-Germain forward received the men’s honor for the first time in his career, capping a historic campaign both individually and collectively.
At 28 years old, Dembélé played a decisive role in PSG’s success, helping the club secure its first-ever Champions League title and emerging as one of the most decisive attackers in Europe. In the final vote, the French international finished ahead of compatriot Kylian Mbappé, now at Real Madrid, and Spanish rising star Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona.
Upon receiving the award, Dembélé thanked his teammates and coaching staff, emphasizing that the recognition was the result of hard work and collective commitment after what he described as an extraordinary year. In the women’s category, Bonmatí once again stood out following a remarkable season in which she was named Champions League Player of the Season and led Spain to the final of the European Championship.
Currently recovering from surgery after a fractured fibula, the Spanish midfielder expressed her gratitude to players, coaches, and fans who participated in the voting process, stressing that the award represents a shared achievement built on teamwork and dedication. The ceremony also honored the world’s best coaches. Spain’s Luis Enrique was named World Coach of the Year in the men’s category after guiding Paris Saint-Germain to their first Champions League triumph, a landmark achievement in the club’s history.
In women’s football, Dutch coach Sarina Wiegman was once again recognized as the world’s best after leading England to her third European Championship title as a national team manager, reinforcing her reputation as one of the most successful coaches in international football. Goalkeepers were also celebrated during the gala, with Gianluigi Donnarumma receiving the Men’s World Goalkeeper of the Year award and England’s Hannah Hampton of Chelsea taking the women’s honor.
Both players had previously been recognized with the Ballon d’Or earlier in the year, underlining the consistency of individual accolades across the season. The winners were selected through a global voting process involving national team coaches, national team captains, football journalists, and fans worldwide, bringing the ceremony to a close with a celebration of excellence, dedication, and global impact across all levels of the sport.
