In a remarkable culmination of a truly successful year, Aitana Bonmati, the proficient midfielder from Spain and Barcelona, has ascended to glory by winning the Women’s Ballon d’Or for the first time. The football field witnessed the 25-year-old athlete’s exceptional performance throughout the year in which she significantly contributed to her club’s victories in the Spanish top flight and Champions League. Simultaneously, she played an instrumental role in leading her country to triumph in the World Cup in the summer.
Adding further to her accomplishments, Bonmati clinched the title of UEFA’s player of the year earlier in August. Nevertheless, the competition was indeed fierce with England goalkeeper Mary Earps securing the fifth spot and her teammate, Rachel Daly, finishing in the tenth position. Their fellow Lionesses, Millie Bright and Georgia Stanway, were also considered for nomination.
Despite the tough competition, it was Bonmati who ultimately held the Women’s Ballon d’Or aloft on the stage in Paris. Speaking about her momentous achievement, Bonmati didn’t fail to acknowledge the collective contribution. She stated, “I’m very proud to win the Ballon d’Or. Football is a collective sport so I’d like to extend this prize to my teammates and staff.”
In the final part of her English speech, Bonmati further extended her congratulations to the other talented nominees stating, “They’re great footballers.” With a sense of responsibility and humility, she emphasized the importance of being role models both on and off the pitch.
While Spain’s World Cup victory was indeed overcast by an unfortunate incident involving Spanish football federation president Luis Rubiales, Bonmati’s powerful performance undeniably stole the limelight. The admirably athletic player brilliantly scored three goals in the tournament in Australia and New Zealand. These efforts not only led Spain to seize victory over England in the final but also further established Bonmati’s dominance in football.
Bonmati’s incredible journey comprises four league titles with Barcelona and two Champions Leagues. The athlete now holds the distinction of being the recipient of the Women’s Ballon d’Or, an event in its fifth edition, following in the footsteps of her Spain and Barcelona teammate Alexia Putellas, who was the winner for the past two years.
