Ballon d’Or 2025: Alexia Putellas and Aitana Bonmatí lead the favorites for the women’s award
Spain and England dominate the race ahead of the ceremony on September 22
As the 2025 Ballon d’Or ceremony approaches, the women’s award promises to be one of the most hotly contested categories. Scheduled for September 22, the prestigious France Football event will recognize the best female footballer of the season—and this year’s shortlist is already stirring debate.
Reigning champions Spain and England dominate the favorites, with Alexia Putellas and Aitana Bonmatí emerging as top contenders following standout performances for both club and country.
Spanish and English Stars Top the List
Alexia Putellas, a two-time Ballon d’Or winner (2021, 2022), enters as the frontrunner once again. The Barcelona midfielder enjoyed another stellar season, finishing among the top scorers for both Barcelona and Spain, while playing a pivotal role in her national team’s deep run at the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025.
Close behind is Aitana Bonmatí, the 2023 and 2024 Ballon d’Or winner. After lifting her second Women’s Champions League title with Barcelona and helping Spain secure the 2023 Women’s World Cup, Bonmatí continued her dominant form into the current season.
Other notable contenders include:
- Mariona Caldentey: The Arsenal striker led her club to a historic Women’s Champions League victory and was instrumental in Spain’s Euro 2025 runner-up campaign.
- Leah Williamson: A rock in Arsenal’s defense and a key figure in England’s European title win.
- Alessia Russo: The English forward delivered crucial goals for both Arsenal and the national team, further boosting her Ballon d’Or chances.
Marta Not Among Favorites Despite Copa América Final
Despite a strong showing in the Copa América Femenina final, Brazilian legend Marta is not among the leading candidates for this year’s award. The 38-year-old remains an icon of the sport, but the focus has shifted to players active in top European competitions, particularly the Women’s Euro and the Champions League.
Spain’s Recent Ballon d’Or Dominance
Spain has enjoyed a golden era in women’s football, securing the last four Ballon d’Or Féminin awards. Putellas captured back-to-back honors in 2021 and 2022, while Bonmatí claimed the 2023 and 2024 editions—cementing the country’s dominance in both individual and team accolades.
Has Marta Ever Won the Ballon d’Or?
Despite her legendary status, Marta has never won the Ballon d’Or, which was first awarded in the women’s category in 2018. However, she remains the most decorated female player in FIFA’s Best Player history, winning six times between 2006 and 2018.
