Ballon d’Or 2025: Favorites, Awards, and What It Really Means for Football Stars

The 2025 Ballon d’Or ceremony is approaching, and the football world is eagerly awaiting the crowning of the new kings and queens of the season. In the men’s Ballon d’Or category, the top favorites are Ousmane Dembélé (PSG) and Barcelona forwards Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, a trio even analyzed using artificial intelligence predictions to forecast the future winner.

Women’s Football and Other Ballon d’Or Categories

The 2025 Ballon d’Or will also honor the best in women’s football, with a standout nomination for Colombian star Linda Caicedo, representing Real Madrid, in the best young player category. Awards will also go to the best coach and the best club of the season, recognizing achievements across international football.

How Much Is the Ballon d’Or Worth?

While many assume the Ballon d’Or prize includes a large cash reward, the reality is different: there is no direct financial compensation. The award, backed by France Football and UEFA, consists solely of the Ballon d’Or trophy, with an estimated value of $3,500, though it is not made of solid gold.

Despite the lack of a monetary prize, the impact of winning the Ballon d’Or is far-reaching. Clubs frequently provide bonuses and incentives to their awarded players, and brands often sign multimillion-dollar endorsement contracts with the winners.

More Than a Trophy: Prestige, Recognition, and Market Value

Winning the Ballon d’Or 2025 brings an instant boost in market value and global status for any footballer. The prestige and worldwide recognition that come with this award surpass the absence of direct financial reward, cementing the player as a true global football star.