Lionel Messi has congratulated Ousmane Dembele after the French forward was officially crowned the 2025 Ballon d’Or winner, finishing ahead of Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.
Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner now playing for Inter Miami, described himself as “very happy” for his former Barcelona teammate, calling the 28-year-old’s achievement “well deserved.”
Dembele received football’s most prestigious individual prize on Monday night at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, beating 18-year-old Yamal, who finished second, and Portugal midfielder Vitinha, who came third.
Following his triumph, Dembele expressed his delight in an Instagram post:
“Lots of joy, pride and emotion. A dream come true. Thank you to all those who have always supported me throughout this journey. #ballondor.”
Messi responded directly to his post with a heartfelt message:
“Great Ous!!! Congratulations, I’m very happy for you. You deserve it.”
