Paris Saint-Germain forward Ousmane Dembele gave special recognition to football icons Ronaldinho, Andres Iniesta, and his manager Luis Enrique after being crowned the 2025 Ballon d’Or winner in Paris on Monday night.

The French international beat off competition from Lamine Yamal and PSG teammate Vitinha to claim the prestigious prize, capping off a stellar season in which he led PSG to glory both domestically and in Europe.

Receiving the award from Brazilian legend Ronaldinho, Dembele described the moment as unforgettable.

“It’s exceptional what I have just experienced. I have no words. It’s been an incredible year with PSG,” Dembele said.
“That Ronaldinho, a football legend, gives it to me, it’s exceptional. I’m proud of what I have accomplished.”

The 28-year-old went on to thank PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi, calling him “like a dad,” and expressed gratitude to coach Luis Enrique, who he said played a fatherly role in his career.

Dembele also reflected on his earlier years, paying tribute to the clubs that shaped him: Rennes, Borussia Dortmund, and Barcelona. He highlighted his time at Barça as a dream come true, where he learned from legendary players such as Andres Iniesta and Lionel Messi.

“We won almost everything with PSG. This individual trophy really rewards the collective. I also want to thank all the clubs I went through—Rennes, Dortmund, Barcelona—where I learned from exceptional players like Andres Iniesta and Lionel Messi,” he added.

Dembele’s Ballon d’Or win crowns a season in which he scored 39 goals and registered 14 assists, helping PSG secure the Champions League, Ligue 1, and other major trophies.