Spanish football player Aitana Bonmatí, 27, has made history by winning the women’s Ballon d’Or for the third time, becoming the first female player to achieve this milestone. A key figure at Barcelona, Bonmatí has been instrumental in the club’s success, helping them lift multiple UEFA Women’s Champions League titles and dominate Spanish domestic competitions.

Third time Ballon d’Or

She previously won the award in 2023 and 2024, following Barcelona legend Alexia Putellas, who claimed it in 2021 and 2022, meaning Barcelona players have now won the Ballon d’Or Féminin five years in a row. Bonmatí received the award from Barcelona legend Andrés Iniesta and said, "This is my third time in a row, and I still can’t believe it. I owe Barcelona everything; this is the club of my life. I hope to represent this badge for many more years." Her international teammate, Mariona Caldentey, finished second, highlighting the strength of Spain’s women’s football.

Other top players

England’s stars were strongly represented in the top 10. Arsenal trio Alessia Russo (3rd), Chloe Kelly (5th), and Leah Williamson (7th) impressed with their performances at club and international level. Chelsea’s Lucy Bronze (9th) and Hannah Hampton (10th) also made the top 10, reflecting their consistency and achievements in domestic and European competitions.

Outside the top 10, notable players included Arsenal’s Emily Fox (25th) and Steph Catley (29th), Chelsea’s Sandy Baltimore (15th) and Johanna Rytting Kaneryd (23rd), former Chelsea midfielder Pernille Harder (20th), and Scotland’s Caroline Weir (30th). It was also a proud night for England’s women’s football: manager Sarina Wiegman won the women’s coach award, while Chelsea goalkeeper Hannah Hampton was named best goalkeeper.