Bonmati Makes History with Third Women's Ballon d'Or Win

TL;DR — Key Takeaways

• Spain's Aitana Bonmati won her third Women's Ballon d'Or on September 22, 2025.
• This achievement makes her the first woman to win three Ballon d'Or titles.
• Bonmati's contributions to FC Barcelona and the Spanish national team have been pivotal in her success.
• The recognition of women's sports continues to grow, reflecting broader societal changes.
• The Ballon d'Or remains a significant accolade in women's football, enhancing visibility and support for female athletes.

Table of Contents

What’s Happening Now

On September 22, 2025, Aitana Bonmati made history by winning her third Women's Ballon d'Or, an accolade awarded to the best female football player in the world. This victory marks a significant milestone as she becomes the first woman to achieve this honor three times, further solidifying her status as a leading figure in women's football. The award ceremony highlighted the growing recognition of women's achievements in sports, reflecting both Bonmati's exceptional talent and the increasing visibility of female athletes globally.

Core Concepts & Background

The Ballon d'Or is an annual football award presented by France Football. It recognizes the best male and female football players globally, with the women's award established in 2018. The award is determined through votes from a panel of international journalists, making it a prestigious recognition in the sport.

Ballon d'Or

A prestigious award recognizing the best football players in the world.

Aitana Bonmati

A Spanish footballer known for her skills and contributions to FC Barcelona and the national team.

Women's Football

The segment of football played by female athletes, which has gained significant attention and support in recent years.

Bonmati's career has been marked by her exceptional skills as a midfielder, her leadership on the field, and her ability to perform in high-pressure situations. She has been instrumental in FC Barcelona's successes, including winning multiple domestic and international titles.

How It Works (Step by Step)

The process of awarding the Ballon d'Or involves several key steps:

1. Nominations: Players are nominated based on their performances over the calendar year.
2. Voting: A panel of journalists from around the world votes for their top players, considering individual and team achievements.
3. Results Announcement: The results are announced at a gala event, where the winners are revealed.
4. Award Presentation: The winners receive their awards, often accompanied by media coverage and public celebrations.

Context & History (Brief)

Since its inception, the Ballon d'Or has evolved significantly, with the women's category gaining traction in recent years. The establishment of the women's award in 2018 marked a turning point, providing female players with a platform to showcase their talents on a global stage. Bonmati's first win in 2021 set a precedent, and her subsequent victories reflect the increasing competitiveness and skill level in women's football.

The recognition of female athletes has also been influenced by broader societal changes, including movements advocating for gender equality in sports. Bonmati's achievements symbolize the progress made and the ongoing efforts to elevate women's sports.

Why It Matters

Bonmati's win is significant for several reasons:

• Empowerment: Her achievement inspires young female athletes to pursue their dreams in sports.
• Visibility: Winning the Ballon d'Or brings attention to women's football, encouraging media coverage and sponsorship opportunities.
• Role Models: Bonmati serves as a role model for aspiring players, demonstrating that success is attainable through hard work and dedication.

For policymakers and sports organizations, Bonmati's success highlights the importance of investing in women's sports and providing equitable opportunities for female athletes.

In Depth

Bonmati's third Ballon d'Or win is not just a personal achievement; it reflects the broader trends in women's sports. The increasing support for female athletes has led to more competitive leagues, better training facilities, and greater visibility. However, challenges remain, including disparities in funding and media coverage compared to men's sports.

Counterpoints & Uncertainties

• Will the momentum for women's sports continue to grow, or will it plateau?
• How can sports organizations ensure equitable funding and support for women's teams?
• What role will media play in shaping the future of women's sports visibility?

What to Do Next

For those interested in supporting women's sports, consider the following actions:

• Attend women's sporting events to show support and increase visibility.
• Engage with and promote female athletes on social media platforms.
• Advocate for equal funding and resources for women's sports programs in schools and communities.

FAQs

What is the Ballon d'Or?

The Ballon d'Or is an annual award recognizing the best football players in the world, with separate categories for men and women.

Who is Aitana Bonmati?

Aitana Bonmati is a Spanish footballer known for her exceptional skills and contributions to her club and national team.

Why is Bonmati's third win significant?

Her third win is significant as it establishes her as the first woman to achieve this honor three times, highlighting the growth of women's football.

Bottom Line

Aitana Bonmati's third Ballon d'Or win is a landmark achievement in women's sports, symbolizing progress and inspiring future generations. Supporting women's sports through attendance, advocacy, and promotion can further enhance this momentum.

Sources & Methodology

1. BBC News - Spain's Bonmati claims record third women's Ballon d'Or.

Information was vetted through reputable sources, ensuring accuracy and relevance to the topic.