Football fans worldwide will soon witness a historic moment, as Ronaldinho, one of the greatest players in the history of the sport, has been chosen to present the 2025 Ballon d’Or award. The legendary Brazilian, who dazzled crowds during his playing career at Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, AC Milan, and with the Brazil national team, will step on stage at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris on September 22 to hand over football’s most prestigious individual trophy to its newest winner.
The announcement was made by Spanish journalist Dani Gil, who confirmed that France Football magazine, the organizer of the Ballon d’Or, selected Ronaldinho in celebration of the 20th anniversary of his own victory in 2005. This decision ensures that the ceremony will carry not only anticipation about who will win but also a deep sense of history and nostalgia.
Ronaldinho’s connection to the Ballon d’Or is unforgettable. In 2005, he received the award after leading Barcelona to domestic dominance and mesmerizing the world with his flair, vision, and technical genius. His iconic performances that year — including his masterclass at the Santiago Bernabéu against Real Madrid, where even rival fans applauded him — remain etched in football folklore. By inviting him to present the award in 2025, France Football is paying tribute not just to Ronaldinho the player, but also to his lasting influence on global football. Few players in history have embodied the joy of the game as fully as he did. His smile, creativity, and unpredictable style made him a fan favorite far beyond Barcelona or Brazil, and even 20 years later, his legacy continues to inspire young footballers across the world.
The symbolism is powerful: the 2005 winner passing the torch to the 2025 champion, bridging two eras of football greatness.This year’s Ballon d’Or ceremony will once again feature multiple awards, highlighting different aspects of excellence in world football. For the fourth time in history, the trophies will be awarded based on performances during a season (August 1, 2024 – July 13, 2025) rather than by calendar year, aligning the recognition more closely with football’s competition schedule. The awards include: Men’s Ballon d’Or – the most prestigious prize, awarded to the best male player of the season.
Women’s Ballon d’Or – recognizing the top female footballer. Kopa Trophy – awarded to the best young player under 21.Lev Yashin Trophy – honoring the best goalkeeper in the world. Gerd Müller Trophy – given to the season’s top scorer. The event will gather the brightest stars in global football, along with legends of the past, dignitaries, coaches, and fans who eagerly await the unveiling of the 2025 winner.While the official shortlist is yet to be finalized, speculation is already rampant about who might receive the honor from Ronaldinho’s hands.
Ousmane Dembélé, after winning the Champions League with Paris Saint-Germain in 2025, is widely tipped as a front-runner. Lamine Yamal, Barcelona’s teenage sensation, has emerged as one of the brightest prospects in world football and could achieve a historic placement. Kylian Mbappé, now at Real Madrid, remains a perennial candidate thanks to his scoring prowess and leadership for France.Vitinha, recognized for his creativity and midfield brilliance, has also risen in prominence and could challenge for a podium spot. The presence of Ronaldinho will only add to the excitement, as the football world debates whether the 2025 winner will be a young prodigy signaling a new generation or an established star finally claiming the crown.
Ronaldinho presenting the 2025 Ballon d’Or award will make this year’s ceremony one of the most memorable in recent history. On September 22, the football community will not only celebrate the achievements of today’s best players but also honor the legacy of a legend whose artistry redefined the sport two decades ago.
France Football’s decision to invite Ronaldinho is both a tribute and a reminder: while trophies and statistics matter, football is also about magic, joy, and unforgettable moments. As he steps onto the stage in Paris, fans will see the past meet the present — and witness one of the most iconic Ballon d’Or handovers ever.
