The most highly-anticipated soccer ceremony in the world is around the corner and our final predictions are here.
This year’s 69th edition of the Ballon d’Or awards — the men’s and women’s Ballon d’Or, the Yashin Trophy for best goalkeeper, and the Kopa Trophy for best U-21 player — promise to spark even more conversation than last year’s edition.
In 2024, Rodri’s win over Vinícius Jr. ignited fierce controversy, with many questioning whether the Manchester City midfielder truly outshined the Brazilian and Real Madrid superstar.
Now, as the dust settles on the closure of the previous action-packed campaign, a new crop of contenders has emerged.
Will Ousmane Dembélé to be crowned the best player in the world after a historic club season? Is Lamine Yamal to shock the world? Will a new women’s star take the throne? Will Gianluigi Donnarumma finally reach legend status? All questions to be answered in the coming week.
As the soccer world prepares for another glamorous night in Paris, France, on Monday, Sept. 22, The18 breaks down who we believe should be walking away with the biggest individual honors in the sport. And we’re going bold.
Ballon d'Or 2025 winner predictions: men's and women's Ballon d'Or, Kopa Trophy and Yashin Trophy
Kopa Trophy
Winner: Lamine Yamal - FC Barcelona/Spain
Second place: Désiré Doué - Paris Saint-Germain/France
Third place: Dean Huijsen - Bournemouth/Real Madrid/Spain
Yashin Trophy
Winner: Gianluigi Donnarumma - Paris Saint-Germain/Italy
Second place: Alisson - Liverpool FC/Brazil
Third place: Yann Sommer - Inter Milan/Switzerland
Women’s Ballon d’Or
Winner: Alessia Russo - Arsenal/England
Second place: Chloe Kelly - Arsenal/England
Third place: Aitana Bonamtí - FC Barcelona/Spain
Men’s Ballon d’Or:
Winner: Raphinha - FC Barcelona/Brazil
Second place: Ousmane Dembélé - Paris Saint-Germain/France
Third place: Lamine Yamal - FC Barcelona/Spain
