Ousmane Dembele's Ballon d'Or victory was celebrated with a poignant acceptance speech, overflowing with gratitude and touching moments that resonated with fans worldwide.
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UPDATE AT 2025: In an unforgettable evening in Paris, Ousmane Dembele made history by winning the coveted Ballon d’Or for 2025. This award marks him as one of the elite players of his generation and the second to win this accolade while playing for Paris Saint-Germain.
Dembele’s achievement is particularly significant as he becomes the sixth Frenchman to receive this honor, joining football legends like Raymond Kopa, Michel Platini, Jean-Pierre Papin, Zinedine Zidane, and Karim Benzema.
Highlight of the evening
During the ceremony, Dembele received the award from football icon Ronaldinho, a former star of PSG and Barcelona.
Overcome with emotion, Dembele struggled to articulate his thoughts. “I don’t have many words. Look, it’s not easy. It is one of the best things I have accomplished in my career,” he stated, his voice reflecting heartfelt gratitude.
Acknowledging his journey
In a moving speech, Dembele expressed deep appreciation for the support he has received since joining PSG. He emphasized the importance of his teammates and the club’s family-like atmosphere. “To all the team and the club, it’s really an incredible family. You have been amazing since the first day. The president, since the first contact, he has been exceptional with me,” he remarked, underscoring the collaborative nature of success in football.
Dembele also highlighted the critical role of the coaching staff, particularly Luis Enrique, whom he credited as a pivotal figure in his career. “My coach Luis Enrique has been amazing with me and has been the most important of my career,” he added. This acknowledgment reinforces the reality that behind every great player is a robust support system.
Emotional tributes
As the evening progressed, Dembele’s emotional connection to his family was evident. In a poignant moment, he dedicated part of his speech to his mother, whose unwavering support has been instrumental in his life. “To my mother, I want to thank you. You have always been there for me, mama,” he said, visibly moved. This moment resonated with the audience, highlighting the personal sacrifices inherent in a professional sports career.
Following his heartfelt words, Dembele’s mother joined him on stage, intensifying the emotional significance of the occasion. Together, they reflected on their journey filled with challenges and victories, a testament to the strength of family bonds. “To my family, we have experienced so much together. We have been through it all. We will always be together,” he concluded, emphasizing the importance of unity in overcoming adversity.
Dembele’s victory is not just a personal milestone but also a reflection of the resilience and dedication required to reach the pinnacle of football. It serves as a reminder that behind the accolades lie genuine stories of hard work, sacrifice, and love that define a player’s career.
Conclusion
The 2025 Ballon d’Or ceremony was more than an event to honor Ousmane Dembele; it was a celebration of the communal spirit that defines football. His emotional acceptance speech will be remembered as a sincere tribute to those who have influenced his life and career. As he holds this prestigious award, Dembele embodies hope and inspiration for aspiring footballers worldwide, proving that dreams can indeed be realized with perseverance and support.
