This Monday evening, the 68th Ballon d’Or ceremony crowned the prodigies of world football, Rodri and Aitana Bonmati. In a Théâtre du Châtelet sparkling with celebrities, Paris vibrated under the cheers of an evening dedicated to sporting excellence and the promise of a new era.
A New Era: Rodri and Bonmati at the Top
For the first time in nearly two decades, the ceremony took place without the presence of legends Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. A page turns, making way for new faces dominating world football. The Spaniard Rodri, tireless midfielder of Manchester City, finally won his first Ballon d’Or, ending the reign of the Argentine giant. The announcement made by George Weah, legend and the first African player to receive this award, brought the audience to a joyful explosion, hanging on his every word. Rodri, calm and moved, embodied serenity and mastery of his game in the face of this long-awaited consecration.
On the women’s side, Aitana Bonmati once again proved she is the embodiment of elegance and finesse on the field. Triumphing for the second consecutive year, the Spanish midfielder, star of FC Barcelona, confirmed her status as a role model and inspiration. "As long as the desire is there, I will continue," she confided, adding a touch of determination to an evening already rich in emotions.
An Evening of Surprises and Commitments
The ceremony was also marked by unexpected presences. Natalie Portman, Oscar-winning actress and owner of the women’s club Angel City FC, lit up the evening by presenting the Ballon d’Or to Bonmati. Saying she was "honored to participate in this celebration of female talent," she emphasized the importance of recognition for women’s football. Her presence excited the spectators, bringing a Hollywood touch that made the event shine.
The young Spanish prodigy Lamine Yamal, only 17 years old, received the Kopa Trophy rewarding the best player under 21. Ranked in the top 10 of the Ballon d’Or, Yamal represents the future of football. Despite the vile racist attacks he suffered this season, he demonstrated exceptional maturity by declaring: "If they insult me, it’s because I’m good." Supported by influential players like Vinicius Junior, determined to fight racism on and off the field, Yamal embodies the future of football where diversity is a strength. These abominations do not tarnish Yamal’s talent, a prodigy whose game is destined to shine, regardless of prejudice.
The Crowning of Champions and the Committed
The commitment did not stop there. The prestigious Socrates Trophy, dedicated to solidarity actions, was awarded to Jennifer Hermoso, who distinguished herself not only by her talent but also by her fight for gender equality in football. A symbol of a new generation of players, Hermoso declared she hoped "this award paves the way for other women."
The Yachine Trophy once again crowned the Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. His flamboyant performance and sometimes controversial celebrations during the World Cup left an indelible mark. Beyond his goalkeeping mastery, Martinez demonstrated a complex and passionate personality that continues to captivate fans.
Finally, in an act of protest, Real Madrid boycotted the evening to denounce the absence of Vinicius Junior among the winners. The club, although elected the best men’s club of the year, preferred to stay away, while Vinicius’s fervent supporters made their voices heard in an electric atmosphere.
Sandy Heribert: The Soul of the Ceremony
Alongside the elegant Didier Drogba, Sandy Heribert once again enhanced the ceremony with her radiant smile and professionalism. Since 2019, she has been an integral part of this event and embodies the modernity and passion of football. Drogba himself admitted: "Sandy is my anchor on stage."
Faithful to the Ballon d’Or, Heribert confided that she dreams of one day presenting this award to a French legend, expressing particular admiration for Zinédine Zidane. A dream shared by fans, testifying to her sincere attachment to football and its legends.
An Evening for Legends and the Next Generation
The Théâtre du Châtelet thus experienced an intense evening, punctuated by emotions and unforgettable moments. Between the trophies, tributes, and support, this edition of the Ballon d’Or will remain etched in memories. The shadow of Messi and Ronaldo still looms, but the hope embodied by talents like Lamine Yamal heralds a promising and inspiring new generation.
Whether in a year, at the Théâtre du Châtelet or elsewhere, football continues to make us dream, celebrating both its legends and its rising stars.
