Aitana Bonmati Makes History with Third Straight Ballon d'Or Féminin

When the curtains fell at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris on September 22, 2025, a single name echoed through the hall: Aitana Bonmati. The 26‑year‑old Barcelona and Spain midfielder lifted the coveted trophy for the third year running, cementing a legacy that few in the sport, male or female, have ever achieved.

Bonmati’s historic third Ballon d'Or Féminin

The honor places Bonmati in an exclusive club. Only two players in the award’s 70‑year history have ever managed three straight wins – Michel Platini (1983‑85) and Lionel Messi (2009‑12). Bonmati not only matches these legends but does so in a rapidly evolving segment of the game, where competition, exposure, and talent depth have surged dramatically.

Her latest triumph crowns an extraordinary 2024‑25 campaign. Leading Barcelona Femení, she guided the side to another domestic treble – the league, the Copa de la Reina, and the Supercopa. The midfield maestro contributed 18 goals and 23 assists across all competitions, a statistical output that dwarfed even the most prolific forwards.

Internationally, Bonmati remains Spain’s lynchpin. Although the national team fell short at the Euro finals, losing to England, they entered the tournament as World Cup and UEFA Nations League champions, titles in which Bonmati played pivotal roles. Her leadership on and off the pitch has become a benchmark for aspiring players worldwide.

What the win means for women's football

The significance of a third consecutive award ripples far beyond individual accolades. It signals that the women's game has finally achieved a level of consistency and professionalism that rivals the men’s sport. Sponsors, broadcasters, and young athletes alike are taking note of a player whose career trajectory mirrors the sport’s own meteoric rise.

Bonmati’s victory also sparked a lively debate among pundits. Some argued that her dominance could stifle competition, while others pointed to the depth of talent across Europe as evidence that she truly stands out. The vote, however, was clear: she edged out Arsenal’s Mariona Caldentey, who had just secured a historic Champions League win for her club.

Beyond the numbers, the award shines a spotlight on the growing infrastructure supporting women’s football. Academy programs in Spain, increased media coverage, and a surge in grassroots participation are all feeding into a pipeline that produces world‑class talent like Bonmati.

As the sport continues its ascent, the next generation will grow up watching a player who not only broke records but also helped reshape how the world perceives women's football. Whether she adds a fourth Ballon d'Or to her résumé or passes the torch, Aitana Bonmati’s name is now etched in the annals of football history.