The Ballon d’Or award ceremony was held in a grand ceremony at the Théâtre de la Charlotte in France on Monday night (September 22). Where PSG winger Ousmane Dembele was recognized as the best footballer of the year, leaving everyone behind. His biggest rival was Lamine Yamal. Although he did not receive the Ballon, he did win another award.
Yamal has won the ‘Kopa Trophy’ award for the best player of the year among U-21 footballers. He has won this award for the second time in a row. The trophy was presented to the young forward of Spain and Barcelona by former World Cup-winning defender of France Raphael Varane. The winger achieved the unique feat of winning the Kopa Trophy twice at the age of just 18.
Yamal’s excellent performance last season earned him this recognition. He scored 18 goals in 55 matches in all competitions and assisted 25 goals for his teammates. French star Kylian Mbappe won the award for the first time since its inception in 2018. After that, Pedri and Gavi received this honor while playing for Barcelona. However, only Yamal has won it twice.
Another Barcelona forward, Vicky Lopes, won the Young Player of the Year award in the women’s category. The 19-year-old forward also shone in club football last season. Another Barcelona player, Aitana Bonmati, won the Ballon d’Or in women’s football.
FAQ
Who is Lamine Yamal?
Lamine Yamal is a young Spanish winger who plays for Barcelona and has quickly become one of the most promising talents in world football.
What is the Kopa Trophy?
The Kopa Trophy is awarded by France Football to the best footballer under the age of 21 each year.
What record did Yamal achieve with this award?
At just 18 years old, Yamal became the first U-21 player to win the Kopa Trophy twice.
What were Yamal’s performances like last season?
He scored 18 goals and provided 25 assists in 55 matches across all competitions, helping Barcelona in multiple tournaments.
Who presented the award to Yamal?
Former World Cup-winning French defender Raphael Varane presented the Kopa Trophy to Lamine Yamal at the 2025 ceremony.
