Spain and Barcelona midfielder Aitana Bonmati has etched her name into football history by becoming the first player to win the women’s Ballon d’Or three times. The 27-year-old lifted the prestigious prize once again, edging out her Spain teammate and Arsenal winger Mariona Caldentey, who finished second.
It was a night of strong English representation too, with five Lionesses appearing in the top 10. Arsenal’s Alessia Russo, Chloe Kelly, and Leah Williamson claimed third, fifth, and seventh spots respectively, while Chelsea’s Lucy Bronze and Hannah Hampton ranked ninth and tenth.
Bonmati’s latest triumph adds to her victories in 2023 and 2024, cementing Barcelona’s dominance on the women’s football stage. Her teammate Alexia Putellas had lifted the award in 2021 and 2022, meaning Barcelona players have now claimed the honour for five consecutive years.
From Hospital Bed to the Euros Final
Bonmati’s journey to this year’s crown was marked by resilience. Just days before Euro 2025 began, she was hospitalized with viral meningitis, leaving her tournament participation in doubt. Against all odds, she returned to the pitch and scored Spain’s winning goal in the semi-final against Germany.
Although Spain fell short in the final, losing to England on penalties, Bonmati’s influence was undeniable. Former England midfielder Fara Williams described her as the kind of player who “takes the game by the scruff of the neck” when it matters most. That decisive quality was instrumental in securing her third straight Ballon d’Or.
Her story of recovery and leadership resonated with both fans and experts, proving that her greatness extends beyond technical skill to character and determination under pressure.
A Season of Consistency with Barcelona
While Spain narrowly missed European glory, Bonmati enjoyed another impressive campaign at club level. Barcelona secured a domestic treble and reached the Champions League final, where they were beaten by Arsenal.
Bonmati contributed 12 goals and six assists in the league, guiding Barça to finish eight points clear of rivals Real Madrid. In the Champions League, she was once again central, scoring and assisting nine times in 11 appearances, earning UEFA’s Player of the Season award.
Though not flawless, her season highlighted her ability to remain decisive in big games. Even without clinching every major trophy, her impact and influence were unmatched.
Receiving the Prize from a Childhood Hero
On stage in Paris, Bonmati was presented the award by Barcelona legend Andrés Iniesta, a player she idolized growing up. Fighting back emotion, she described the moment as “incredible,” adding that she owed everything to Barcelona, “the club of my life.”
In her speech, Bonmati emphasized the collective nature of the achievement, crediting her teammates for raising the level of competition. “If it was possible to share it, I would,” she said, highlighting her humility despite an individual accolade.
Receiving the award from Iniesta underscored her deep connection to Barcelona’s football philosophy. It was a symbolic passing of the torch, with one midfield great handing recognition to another.
Bonmati Cementing Her Legacy in Women’s Football
At just 27, Bonmati’s third Ballon d’Or confirms her as one of the greatest players of her generation. Beyond her trophies, her ability to influence matches, overcome adversity, and remain consistent at the highest level sets her apart.
Spain’s World Cup triumph in 2023, their first-ever Euros final in 2025, and Barcelona’s domestic dominance all carry her imprint. As she continues to shine, her legacy is becoming one not just of individual brilliance but of inspiring a new era of Spanish and European women’s football.
Bonmati now stands as the benchmark for future generations — a player who has proven that talent, resilience, and leadership can rewrite history.
