Spain star Alexia Putellas wins third Ballon d'Or Feminin

Alexia Putellas, the talented Spanish star, has claimed her third Ballon d'Or Féminin award, solidifying her status as one of the world's premier female soccer players. Putellas previously claimed the prestigious accolade in 2021 and 2022. After a three-year streak where both her and teammate Aitana Bonmatí won the award, Bonmatí's absence due to injury cleared the path for Putellas to snatch the third title.

Putellas' third Ballon d'Or win came after an impressive 2025-26 season, during which she helped Barcelona secure a fourth consecutive UEFA Women's Champions League title. The award-winning forward scored a remarkable seven goals and contributed seven assists throughout the campaign. She led Barcelona to a 4-0 victory over Lyon in the championship final and was named UWCL Player of the Season. Her stellar performances also helped Barcelona clinch the Liga F title for a seventh consecutive season.

The award-winning forward now shares the record for the most Ballon d'Or Féminin wins with Bonmatí, alongside legendary men's winners Michel Platini, Marco van Basten, and Barcelona icon Johan Cruyff. Speaking to France Football after her second win, Putellas expressed her desire to join the exclusive group of players with three titles, saying, "The name that struck me most was Johan Cruyff. He has three, right? I want to go and put my name alongside his. An even bigger challenge. One more in my life."

The annual Ballon d'Or has been honoring the world's top male player since 1956, while the women's version was introduced in 2018. Next year's award will consider the upcoming 2027 Women's World Cup, along with events from July 2026 to spring 2027.