Ousmane Dembele pays tribute to Messi after winning Ballon d'Or ahead of Yamal

Paris Saint-Germain forward, Ousmane Dembele, was named the winner of the 2025 Ballon d'Or, overcoming competition from Barcelona's Lamine Yamal and club teammate Vitinha.

The French international received the prestigious honor on Monday night in Paris, with football legend Ronaldinho presenting him the award.

During his acceptance speech, Dembele expressed his overwhelming emotions and acknowledged the collective effort that led to his individual success.

He extended gratitude to several key figures who have shaped his career.

"It’s exceptional what I have just experienced. I have no words. It’s been an incredible year with PSG; a lot of things have happened during my career," Dembélé said.

"That Ronaldinho, a football legend, gives it to me, it’s exceptional. I’m proud of what I have accomplished."

He specifically thanked his current club, PSG, for believing in him. "I want to thank PSG, who came to get me in 2023, the president, and the whole club. Nasser is like a dad to me.

"I want to thank all the staff who have been exceptional; Luis Enrique, who is also like a dad. I also want to thank my teammates. We won almost everything. You supported me. We went to get almost all the trophies, and this individual trophy really rewards the collective."

Dembélé also reflected on his past, recognizing the formative stages of his career.

"I also want to thank all the clubs I went through, Dortmund, Rennes, my training club where I learned almost everything, Barcelona, where I dreamed of playing, and where I learned from exceptional players like Andres Iniesta and Lionel Messi."