Ballon d’Or 2025: Messi Reacts as Dembele Beats Yamal to Coveted Prize

Argentina captain Lionel Messi has congratulated Ousmane Dembélé after the French forward won the 2025 Ballon d’Or, finishing ahead of rising star Lamine Yamal.

Messi, now playing for Inter Miami, expressed his happiness for his former Barcelona teammate, commenting on Dembélé’s celebratory Instagram post: “Great Ous!!! Congratulations, I’m very happy for you. You deserve it.”

Ousmane Dembélé was announced as the winner of football’s most prestigious individual award during a ceremony at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris on Monday. He topped the rankings ahead of Yamal, who came second, and Vitinha, who placed third.

In his own message, Dembélé wrote: “Lots of joy, pride and emotion. A dream come true. Thank you to all those who have always supported me throughout this journey. #ballondor”

The 2025 award marks a career-defining moment for Dembélé, who has enjoyed a standout season for both club and country.