The France international, who currently holds the coveted prize, admitted that winning the Ballon d\u2019Or had significantly changed the attention he receives but stressed that he wants to remain focused and grounded as he attempts to defend his title.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Dembele was named the 2025 Ballon d\u2019Or winner after a standout campaign in which he scored 33 goals and provided 15 assists across competitions. With the 30-player shortlist for the 2026 award now announced, the PSG forward is once again among the leading contenders.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Speaking to France Football, Dembele reflected on what it has meant to join the select group of players who have won the award.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cI\u2019ve entered an ultra-exclusive family with incredible players. People recognise you as a Ballon d\u2019Or winner as soon as you\u2019re in the street or go to a restaurant. People talk to you about this trophy. That\u2019s what changes,\u201d he said, as quoted by Goal.com.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Despite the increased attention, Dembele said he remains determined to preserve the same personality and values that guided him before reaching the pinnacle of individual football. \u201cWhatever happens, I want to remain the same person, not forget where I come from, not forget that all my teammates obviously helped me to perform so well,\u201d he said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Dembele also made his ambitions for this year\u2019s award clear, while acknowledging that the competition for the prize remains open.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cIt is going to stay in the hands of a PSG player. I\u2019m a competitor, so it\u2019s my goal to win it again. But, as I said, I\u2019m not making it an obsession either. We tell ourselves that this year, it\u2019s going to be difficult, that the Ballon d\u2019Or is undecided, but we\u2019ll see,\u201d he asserted.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Dembele also made his ambitions for this year\u2019s award clear, while acknowledging that the competition for the prize remains open.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The Ballon d\u2019Or ceremony is scheduled to take place in London on October 26, with Dembele hoping to become the latest player to successfully defend the individual honour.<\/p>\r\n\r\n