African Stars Dominate Ballon d'Or 2025 Shortlists

By Daniel Irom – August 7, 2025

Paris, France — Africa will have strong

representation when the winners of the 2025 Ballon d'Or awards are unveiled in Paris on September 22, with six standout players from the continent earning nominations across multiple categories.

The global football community was abuzz on Thursday following the release of the official shortlist by France Football, with top African talents nominated in both the men’s and women’s awards.

Three African players were named among the 30 finalists for the prestigious Men’s Ballon d'Or:

• Mohamed Salah (Egypt/Liverpool): The Egyptian forward played a pivotal role in Liverpool’s Premier League title-winning campaign, delivering consistent performances and vital goals throughout the season.

• Achraf Hakimi (Morocco/Paris Saint-Germain): The Moroccan fullback was instrumental in PSG’s historic treble-winning season, contributing 11 goals and 16 assists, including a memorable goal in the UEFA Champions League final.

• Serhou Guirassy (Guinea/Borussia Dortmund): Guirassy enjoyed a breakthrough year with Dortmund, scoring 38 goals across all competitions and helping the German club reach the Champions League final.

Their inclusion underscores Africa’s rising influence at the top level of European football.Banda, Chawinga, Nnadozie Represent African Women on the Global Stage

In the Women’s Ballon d’Or category, two African forwards were recognised for their standout contributions:

• Barbra Banda (Zambia): The Orlando Pride striker continued her red-hot form from last season into 2025, helping her club to a strong finish in the NWSL and impressing at international level.

• Temwa Chawinga (Malawi): The Malawian star shone brightly in China’s Women’s Super League, finishing as one of the top scorers while also representing her nation in international fixtures.

Meanwhile, Chiamaka Nnadozie (Nigeria/Paris FC) was named among the final contenders for the Women’s Yashin Trophy, awarded to the world’s best goalkeeper. The Super Falcons shot-stopper has been in fine form for club and country, earning praise for her commanding displays.

African Nominees by Category

Award Category	African Nominees
Men’s Ballon d’Or	Mohamed Salah, Achraf Hakimi, Serhou Guirassy
Women’s Ballon d’Or	Barbra Banda, Temwa Chawinga
Women’s Yashin Trophy	Chiamaka Nnadozie

This year’s nominations mark a significant milestone for African football, with the continent fielding multiple candidates in nearly all major Ballon d'Or categories. It reflects not only individual brilliance but also the growing impact of African players at the elite level of the game.

The winners will be officially announced at the Ballon d'Or gala in Paris on Sunday, September 22, 2025.