In a dazzling ceremony that celebrated the pinnacle of football excellence, Barcelona’s star midfielder Aitana Bonmatí was crowned the 2025 Ballon d’Or Féminin winner, securing the prestigious award for the third consecutive year. This remarkable achievement not only underscores her extraordinary talent and consistency but also solidifies her place among the greatest female footballers of all time. The Spanish maestro, whose artistry on the pitch has captivated fans worldwide, outshone a formidable field of competitors, including her Barcelona teammate Mariona Caldentey, England’s prolific striker Alessia Russo, and another Barça legend, Alexia Putellas, to claim the coveted Golden Ball.
The announcement of Bonmatí’s triumph was met with resounding applause, as the 27-year-old midfielder stepped onto the stage, visibly moved by the weight of the moment. Her emotional acceptance speech resonated deeply with the audience, blending humility, gratitude, and a powerful reflection on the evolution of women’s football. Bonmatí’s words, delivered with sincerity and poise, highlighted not only her personal journey but also the collective effort behind her success and the broader progress of the sport she loves.
“Good evening. I’m going to improvise a bit,” Bonmatí began, her voice steady yet tinged with emotion. “Third time here in a row, I don’t really know what to say. Incredible. Thanks to France Football first of all for giving me the third.”
Her candid admission of being momentarily at a loss for words only endeared her further to the global audience. The weight of securing a third consecutive Ballon d’Or—a feat that places her in rarefied air alongside footballing giants—seemed to settle as she spoke. Bonmatí acknowledged the fierce competition, graciously noting the exceptional performances of her peers. “It could have easily gone to any of you. I think the level has been high this year. My teammates here have had a great year,” she said, her humility shining through.
The presence of two of her childhood idols, Andrés Iniesta and Xavi Hernández, added a deeply personal layer to the evening. Bonmatí, who has often credited Barcelona’s iconic midfielders for shaping her playing style, expressed her gratitude for receiving the award in their presence. “To receive this from Iniesta, one of my idols since I was little, and also with Xavi present... my football is partly thanks to them,” she said. This nod to her roots underscored the profound connection between Bonmatí’s journey and the legacy of Barcelona’s storied midfield tradition.
Beyond her personal triumph, Bonmatí used her platform to celebrate a historic milestone for women’s football. For the first time, the Ballon d’Or Féminin carried the same weight and recognition as its men’s counterpart, a step toward equality that Bonmatí and her peers have long championed. “This is the first year we have the same prizes as the men’s team, and that’s appreciated,” she noted. “Equality is something we’ve been demanding for a long time. Today we’ve achieved it.” Her words were a powerful reminder of the progress made in elevating women’s football to new heights, while also signaling that the fight for parity continues.
Bonmatí’s speech culminated in a heartfelt tribute to those who have supported her throughout her career. “To Barça, to Joan Laporta, the president and the board, teammates, staff... we didn’t achieve this alone. It’s thanks to a tremendous collective effort,” she said. “Thank you to Barça, the club of my life. I can’t forget my people, my friends, my family, and all the people who help me become a better player and a better person.” Her gratitude extended beyond the pitch, reflecting the values of humility and teamwork that have defined her career.
A Journey of Excellence
Aitana Bonmatí’s rise to global stardom is a story of talent, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to her craft. Born on January 18, 1998, in Vilanova i la Geltrú, a coastal town near Barcelona, Bonmatí grew up immersed in the rich footballing culture of Catalonia. From an early age, she displayed an innate understanding of the game, combining technical brilliance with a tactical intelligence that set her apart. Her journey through Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy was marked by a relentless drive to improve, even as she navigated the challenges of breaking into a sport that, at the time, offered limited opportunities for women.
Bonmatí made her senior debut for Barcelona in 2016, quickly establishing herself as a key figure in the team’s midfield. Her vision, passing range, and ability to control the tempo of matches drew comparisons to the likes of Iniesta and Xavi, whose influence she has openly embraced. Over the years, she has evolved into a complete midfielder, capable of dictating play, scoring crucial goals, and leading her team through high-stakes moments.
Her first Ballon d’Or win in 2023 was a watershed moment, not only for Bonmatí but for women’s football as a whole. At the time, she was instrumental in Barcelona’s UEFA Women’s Champions League triumph and Spain’s historic World Cup victory, earning her the recognition as the world’s best player. Her second Golden Ball in 2024 further cemented her dominance, as she continued to deliver standout performances for club and country. Now, in 2025, her third consecutive win places her in an elite category, joining the likes of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, who have similarly dominated the men’s Ballon d’Or.
Barcelona’s Dominance and Bonmatí’s Role
Bonmatí’s success is inextricably linked to Barcelona’s golden era in women’s football. The Catalan club has emerged as a powerhouse, winning multiple domestic and European titles in recent years. Under the guidance of coaches like Jonatan Giráldez and now Pere Romeu, Barcelona has set a new standard for excellence, blending tactical sophistication with a commitment to attacking, possession-based football.
Bonmatí has been the heartbeat of this team, orchestrating play from the midfield with a grace and precision that belie the intensity of her work rate. Her ability to read the game, combined with her technical prowess, has made her indispensable to Barcelona’s success. In the 2024-25 season, she played a pivotal role in securing another La Liga title and a second consecutive UEFA Women’s Champions League trophy, further bolstering her case for the Ballon d’Or.
Her synergy with teammates like Mariona Caldentey, Alexia Putellas, and Salma Paralluelo has been a cornerstone of Barcelona’s dominance. The fact that Caldentey and Putellas were also in contention for the 2025 Ballon d’Or speaks to the depth of talent within the squad. Bonmatí’s acknowledgment of her teammates’ contributions in her acceptance speech reflects the camaraderie and collective spirit that have propelled Barcelona to the forefront of the sport.
A Champion for Equality
Bonmatí’s impact extends far beyond her on-field exploits. As a vocal advocate for equality in football, she has used her platform to push for greater recognition and resources for the women’s game. Her comments about the parity achieved in the 2025 Ballon d’Or ceremony highlight her commitment to this cause. For years, female footballers have fought for equal pay, better facilities, and greater visibility, and Bonmatí has been at the forefront of these efforts.
Her leadership was particularly evident during Spain’s 2023 World Cup campaign, where she navigated the challenges of a turbulent period for the Spanish national team. Despite off-field controversies, Bonmatí’s focus and professionalism helped guide Spain to their first-ever World Cup title, a triumph that she described as a turning point for women’s football in her country. Her ability to balance her role as a player and a spokesperson for change has earned her admiration from fans and peers alike.
The Competitive Field
The 2025 Ballon d’Or Féminin race was fiercely competitive, with Bonmatí facing stiff challenges from some of the game’s brightest stars. Mariona Caldentey, her Barcelona teammate, enjoyed a stellar season, contributing crucial goals and assists in both domestic and European competitions. Alessia Russo, the England striker, emerged as a formidable contender, showcasing her scoring prowess and versatility for Arsenal and the Lionesses. Alexia Putellas, a two-time Ballon d’Or winner herself, continued to dazzle with her leadership and technical brilliance, despite battling injuries in recent years.
Bonmatí’s ability to edge out such talented players speaks to the consistency and impact of her performances. Her versatility—equally adept at creating chances, scoring goals, and anchoring the midfield—sets her apart in an era where the women’s game is more competitive than ever. The high level of competition, as Bonmatí herself noted, is a testament to the rapid growth of women’s football, with players pushing each other to new heights.
A Legacy in the Making
At just 27 years old, Aitana Bonmatí is already building a legacy that will endure for generations. Her three consecutive Ballon d’Or wins place her among the all-time greats, and her influence on and off the pitch continues to inspire young players around the world. For Bonmatí, however, the focus remains on growth and improvement. Her relentless pursuit of excellence, coupled with her humility, has endeared her to fans and made her a role model for aspiring footballers.
Barcelona’s president, Joan Laporta, praised Bonmatí’s achievement as a reflection of the club’s commitment to nurturing talent. “Aitana is the embodiment of Barça’s values,” he said in a statement. “Her talent, work ethic, and dedication to the club and the sport are an inspiration to us all.” The club’s investment in its women’s team, from state-of-the-art facilities to a world-class coaching staff, has created an environment where players like Bonmatí can thrive.
As women’s football continues to grow, Bonmatí’s story serves as a beacon of what is possible. Her journey from a young girl in Catalonia to a global icon reflects the transformative power of the sport. With her third Ballon d’Or in hand, she shows no signs of slowing down, and fans can only imagine what heights she will reach in the years to come.
The Future of Women’s Football
Bonmatí’s triumph is not just a personal milestone but a symbol of the broader evolution of women’s football. The sport has seen unprecedented growth in recent years, with record-breaking attendance, increased media coverage, and greater investment from clubs and sponsors. The fact that the 2025 Ballon d’Or Féminin was celebrated on equal footing with the men’s award is a significant step forward, signaling a shift toward true parity in the sport.
For Bonmatí, this moment is both a culmination and a beginning. Her leadership, both on and off the pitch, will continue to shape the future of women’s football. Whether she’s orchestrating plays for Barcelona, lifting trophies for Spain, or advocating for equality, Bonmatí remains a driving force in the sport’s ascent.
As she stood on the stage, clutching her third Golden Ball, Aitana Bonmatí embodied the spirit of a new era in football—one defined by talent, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of greatness. Her legacy is already etched in the annals of the sport, but her journey is far from over. For Bonmatí and for women’s football, the best is yet to come.
