Barcelona and Spain midfielder Aitana Bonmati has claimed the Women’s Ballon d’Or for the third straight year, cementing her place as one of the greatest in women’s football.
The award was announced in Paris on Monday, making her only the second player in history to achieve such a streak.
Bonmati, 27, narrowly beat her Spain teammate Mariona Caldentey, who had a stellar year leading Arsenal to a Women’s Champions League triumph and starring in England’s Euro 2025 victory over Spain on penalties. Despite setbacks, including Spain’s Euro final loss and Barcelona’s Champions League defeat, Bonmati’s influence remained undeniable.
Her resilience was evident at the Euros, where she overcame viral meningitis and went on to be named player of the tournament. England striker Alessia Russo finished third in the Ballon d’Or rankings after helping her side to the European crown.
Since its inception in 2018, only a handful of players have won the Women’s Ballon d’Or. Bonmati joins her Barcelona teammate Alexia Putellas as a multiple-time winner, alongside Ada Hegerberg and Megan Rapinoe.
What you should know
Aitana Bonmati’s third consecutive Women’s Ballon d’Or win highlights her consistency, resilience, and brilliance on the world stage. Despite health challenges and tough defeats, her performances continue to inspire.
Her dominance reflects Barcelona and Spain’s influence in women’s football and secures her legacy as one of the game’s all-time greats.
