Messi's Golden Ball record has just been matched

If Messi was once the only player in the 21st century to win a streak of three or more Ballon d'Or awards, this morning history has named another, bringing women's football into a glorious chapter.

In the early hours today, Spanish midfielder Aitana Bonmati stepped onto the podium to receive the 2025 Ballon d'Or from former legend Andres Iniesta. With this victory, Bonmati became the first female player in the 21st century to win three consecutive Ballon d'Or awards, firmly establishing her as the top figure in the current women's football world. In a moment of joy, she shared: "This feeling is unbelievable. When I was a child, I never imagined I could win three Ballon d'Or trophies. I didn't even think women's football could develop to this level. But if you have passion and pursue it actively, you will be rewarded."

In men's football, Lionel Messi made history by winning four consecutive Ballon d'Or awards from 2009 to 2012. This comparison shows that Bonmati's achievement is not only personal but also places her alongside one of the greatest icons in football. This parallel further highlights the special stature of women's football in the global landscape.

Beyond personal glory, Bonmati emphasized the inspirational value she and her teammates bring: "We are not just football players. We are leading by example worldwide. For the new generations coming up, I think they can dream of becoming football players, unlike our generation. They can aspire to that. This is the best thing we could achieve."

In terms of performance, the 2024-2025 season saw Bonmati maintain extraordinary consistency with Barcelona. She played a total of 44 matches and scored 15 goals, playing a crucial role in helping the Catalan team achieve a domestic treble. Earlier in the Champions League, Bonmati scored 4 goals and provided 5 assists, while being voted the best player of the tournament despite Barcelona's defeat to Arsenal in the final in Lisbon.

At the national team level, Bonmati led Spain's attack to the final of the 2025 Women's Euro. Although unable to overcome England in the decisive match, she was still voted the best player of the tournament, confirming her outstanding influence compared to others.

This victory also extends Bonmati's dominance in Spanish women's football at the Ballon d'Or. It marks the fifth consecutive year the prestigious award has gone to a midfielder from Barcelona and the national team, following Alexia Putellas’ back-to-back wins in 2021 and 2022.

Bonmati's three consecutive Ballon d'Or wins not only confirm her exceptional talent but also create a special legacy for women's football, where she is becoming an inspirational icon for the next generation.