Aitana Bonmatí makes history with third consecutive Ballon d’Or, alongside Messi and Platini

Barcelona Femení’s Aitana Bonmatí has achieved a historic milestone by winning the Ballon d’Or Féminin for the third time, a feat no other player has accomplished. Bonmatí had previously won the award twice, thanks to her exceptional performances with Barcelona and the Spain national team.

This achievement puts her in the company of Lionel Messi and Michel Platini, who also won three consecutive Ballon d’Or titles. Despite being the defending champion, Bonmatí did not receive the same level of recognition as in previous years.

While Barcelona maintained their domestic dominance by securing three major trophies in Spain, the Catalan side experienced an unusual slump, dropping two league games this season, a higher number than in the past five years, indicating emerging challenges.

After two years as the clear leader on both club and country fronts, particularly while teammate and fellow Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas recovered from an ACL tear, Bonmatí recently transitioned into a new dynamic, playing alongside Putellas.

This adjustment saw both players maintain impressive form, each registering double digits in goals and assists as Barcelona reached their fifth consecutive Champions League final.

Despite their continued dominance, Bonmatí and Barcelona were denied a third straight Champions League title when Arsenal secured a narrow 1–0 victory in Lisbon.

The English side’s impressive performance marked a significant threat to Barcelona’s continental hegemony, emphasizing the increasing competitiveness of women’s football at the highest echelons.

Bonmatí’s historic third Ballon d’Or Féminin win recognizes her outstanding talent and commitment to football, amidst the shifting and intensifying landscape of the women’s game.

This landmark achievement consolidates her legacy as one of the sport’s most accomplished midfielders and a crucial factor in Barcelona and Spain’s continued dominance.