Credits: Arthur Weidmann / Wikimedia Commons — CC BY-SA 4.0.
This Monday evening, the 68th Ballon d’Or ceremony crowned the standout talents of world football, Rodri and Aitana Bonmati. In a Théâtre du Châtelet sparkling with celebrities, Paris buzzed with cheers for an evening devoted to sporting excellence and the promise of a new era.
A New Era: Rodri and Bonmati on Top
For the first time in nearly two decades, the ceremony took place without the presence of the legends Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. A page is turning, making way for new faces who are dominating world football. Spanish midfielder Rodri, the tireless Manchester City midfielder, finally won his first Ballon d’Or, bringing the Argentine giant’s reign to an end. The announcement by George Weah, a legend and the first African player to receive this award, sent the room—hanging on his every word—into raptures. Rodri, calm and moved, embodied the composure and control of his game in the face of this long-awaited recognition.
On the women’s side, Aitana Bonmati once again proved that she is the embodiment of elegance and finesse on the pitch. Winning for the second year in a row, the Spanish midfielder and FC Barcelona star confirmed her status as a role model and source of inspiration. “As long as the desire is there, I’ll keep going,” she said, adding a touch of determination to an already emotion-filled evening.
An Evening Marked by Surprises and Commitments
The ceremony was also marked by unexpected appearances. Natalie Portman, Oscar-winning actress and owner of women’s club Angel City FC, lit up the night as she presented the Ballon d’Or to Bonmati. Saying she was “honored to take part in this celebration of women’s talent,” she подчеркнула the importance of recognition for women’s football. Her presence thrilled attendees, adding a Hollywood touch that made the event shine.
The young Spanish prodigy Lamine Yamal, just 17 years old, received the Kopa Trophy, awarded to the best player under 21. Ranked in the Ballon d’Or top 10, Yamal represents the future of football. Despite the vile racist abuse he has suffered this season, he showed exceptional maturity by saying: “If they insult me, it means I’m good.” Supported by influential players like Vinicius Junior, determined to fight racism on and off the field, Yamal embodies the future of a football where diversity is a strength. These abuses do nothing to diminish Yamal’s talent, a prodigy whose game is destined to shine, regardless of prejudice.
The Crowning of Champions and Advocates
Commitment did not stop there. The prestigious Socrates Trophy, dedicated to charitable actions, was awarded to Jennifer Hermoso, who stood out not only for her talent but also for her fight for gender equality in football. A symbol of a new generation of players, Hermoso said she hoped “this award paves the way for other women.”
The Yashin Trophy once again crowned Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. His dazzling performances and sometimes controversial celebrations during the World Cup left an indelible mark. Beyond his command in goal, Martinez showed a complex and passionate personality that continues to captivate fans.
Finally, in an act of protest, Real Madrid boycotted the evening to denounce Vinicius Junior not being crowned among the winners. The club, though named men’s club of the year, chose 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 elevated the ceremony with her radiant smile and professionalism. Since 2019, she has been an integral part of this event and embodies modernity and a passion for football. Drogba himself admitted: “Sandy is my anchor on stage.”
A loyal figure at the Ballon d’Or, Heribert said she dreams of one day presenting the award to a French legend, expressing particular admiration for Zinédine Zidane. A dream shared by fans, reflecting her genuine attachment to football and its legends.
An Evening for Legends and the Next Generation
The Théâtre du Châtelet thus experienced an intense evening, marked by emotion and unforgettable moments. Between the trophies, tributes, and show of support, this Ballon d’Or edition will remain etched in memory. Messi and Ronaldo still cast a shadow, but the hope embodied by talents like Lamine Yamal points to a promising and inspiring next generation.
Whether in a year, at the Théâtre du Châtelet or elsewhere, football continues to make people dream, celebrating both its legends and its rising stars.