The Ballon d’Or remains the most prestigious individual prize in football, and every season, debates rage over who deserves to lift the golden ball. For the 2024/25 campaign, one name has captured headlines more than most — Lamine Yamal. At just 18 years old, the Barcelona and Spain forward has been tipped as a future legend, and rumors suggest he could already have achieved football’s highest individual honor. But has Yamal truly won the 2024/25 Ballon d’Or, or are the claims still speculation?
Yamal’s Stellar Season
Lamine Yamal’s performances for Barcelona and Spain have turned him into one of the brightest stars in world football. His dribbling, creativity, and decisiveness in big matches have drawn comparisons with legends like Lionel Messi.
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With Barcelona, Yamal contributed heavily to their domestic and European campaigns, cementing himself as a key figure despite his young age.
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Internationally, he starred for Spain, with coach Luis de la Fuente saying Yamal made a “big Ballon d’Or statement” after his match-winning display against France in the Nations League semifinal.
In 2024, Yamal had already been crowned with the Trophée Kopa, awarded to the best player under 21 in the world.
Rumors of Victory
In recent weeks, social media posts and leaks have circulated claiming that Lamine Yamal has won the Ballon d’Or 2025. These reports quickly spread across football communities, fueling excitement among fans and Barcelona supporters.
However, at the time of writing, there is no official confirmation from France Football, the organizers of the Ballon d’Or. The ceremony has yet to take place, and therefore, all claims should be treated with caution.
The Favorites in the Race
While Yamal is a strong candidate, other players are also in contention:
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Ousmane Dembélé has been widely tipped as the favorite after a remarkable season with PSG, scoring goals and winning silverware.
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Other top names such as Vitinha, Raphinha, and seasoned stars from European football are also mentioned in the conversation.
According to many analysts, Dembélé’s consistency and trophies give him the edge, although Yamal’s youth and explosive rise make him a fan-favorite pick.
Why Yamal Deserves Recognition
Even if he does not claim the Ballon d’Or this season, Yamal’s achievements already stand out:
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Performing at the highest level for both club and country.
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Demonstrating maturity far beyond his years.
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Becoming a symbol of Barcelona’s new era and Spain’s future success.
Many believe it is only a matter of time before Yamal officially joins the Ballon d’Or winners’ list.
At just 18 years old, Lamine Yamal has already established himself as one of the brightest talents in global football. While rumors circulate about him winning the Ballon d’Or 2024/25, no official confirmation has yet been made. Whether or not he lifts the trophy this year, Yamal’s rise ensures his name will be at the center of football’s biggest conversations for years to come.
