Aitana Bonmati Makes History with Third Ballon d'Or Win
Aitana Bonmati, the midfielder for Spain and Barcelona, has made history by becoming the first player to win the women's Ballon d'Or three times.
The 27-year-old athlete secured the prestigious award, with her international teammate, Arsenal winger Mariona Caldentey, finishing in second place.
The top 10 featured five players from England. Arsenal's Alessia Russo, Chloe Kelly, and Leah Williamson placed third, fifth, and seventh, respectively, while Chelsea's Lucy Bronze and Hannah Hampton rounded out the list in ninth and tenth positions.
Bonmati also won the award in 2023 and 2024, marking a remarkable achievement. Barcelona players have now claimed this honor for five consecutive years, following Alexia Putellas' victories in 2021 and 2022.
The Ballon d'Or Féminin, awarded to the best female footballer of the year, is determined by a jury of journalists from the top 100 countries in the FIFA men's world ranking.
In addition to the top 10, Arsenal defenders Emily Fox and Steph Catley finished 25th and 29th, respectively, while midfielder Frida Maanum ranked 27th. Chelsea players Sandy Baltimore and Johanna Rytting Kaneryd placed 15th and 23rd, respectively, and former Chelsea midfielder Pernille Harder came in at 20th.
Scotland and Real Madrid midfielder Caroline Weir finished 30th in the voting.
The evening also celebrated the Lionesses' achievements, as manager Sarina Wiegman received the award for best women's coach, and Chelsea's Hannah Hampton was honored as the best women's goalkeeper.