Ousmane Dembélé received the Ballon d’Or for his instrumental role in leading Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) to their inaugural Champions League victory, while Aitana Bonmatí garnered the women’s award for the third consecutive year this past Monday.

Dembélé succeeded Rodri, a midfielder for Manchester City, becoming the sixth French player to win this prestigious accolade. This includes legends like Raymond Kopa and Zinedine Zidane.

Notably, Dembélé’s journey has been remarkable, transitioning from disciplinary issues last season to being a scoring powerhouse as PSG triumphed in four major tournaments, including the Champions League.

In the Champions League final, his contribution was pivotal, especially in the 5-0 victory against Inter Milan.

Among Dembélé’s challengers was young star Lamine Yamal, who turned 18 in July and helped Barcelona clinch La Liga and the Copa del Rey last season, along with reaching the Champions League semifinals. “I need to keep on working to win other awards in the future,” Yamal remarked through a translator.

Dembélé was unable to attend the ceremony in Paris due to injury but was recognized for his achievements despite his team’s recent loss in the French league.

Meanwhile, Bonmatí outperformed her teammate Mariona Caldentey to achieve this feat, joining the elite ranks of players who have won three consecutive Ballon d’Or awards. Despite a setback last summer in the Women’s European Championship final, where she was a standout, Bonmatí’s influence in the sport remains significant.

“Third time in a row here and I still can’t believe it. I owe Barcelona everything; this is the club of my life,” Bonmatí stated.

In other categories, Vicky Lopez earned the women’s Kopa Trophy, while Sarina Wiegman, who led England to European victory, took home the Johan Cruyff award for best women’s coach. PSG also had a good night, with Luis Enrique recognized as the best men’s coach.