Champions Academy | Ballon d'Or

Champions Academy: Mentally Preparing for a first World Cup

Four Ballon d’Or nominated superstars are primed to participate in their first World Cup tournament. The expectation on each to perform is almost too much to bear.

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Achraf Hakimi and the Arab dream: How he became a 'complete player'

From dominating the wing to orchestrating PSG’s attacks. We take a look at the Moroccan full-back’s transformation: a talented player who influences every aspect of the game and dreams of making history for his region.

A clash of styles: Similarities and differences between Luis Enrique and Mikel Arteta

They shared a dressing room, inherited Barcelona’s philosophy, and today they face off for the European crown in Budapest. A tactical analysis of PSG and Arsenal’s playing styles.

How Sports Psychology Empowered the New Era of Women’s Football

In modern times sports psychology has been embraced by every sport, though to varying extents. Women’s football, however, has long regarded the science a fundamental building block to success, assisting greatly in the game’s revolution.

Women’s ballon d’or

Winners since 2018

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Interviews

"I learned to invent moves at a young age": Ronaldinho, the magician and icon of joga bonito

In 2005, Ronaldinho won the Ballon d'Or. More than twenty years after, the enchanting Brazilian number 10, revisited the highlights of a career defined by giving and receiving joy, for France Football.

Hannah Hampton: "The doctors told me to stop"

Born with severe strabismus and still unable to properly judge distances, Chelsea and England goalkeeper Hannah Hampton didn't start with the best odds before becoming the first female winner of the Yachine Trophy in 2025.

Fabio Cannavaro: “I am filled with pride”

With Fabio Cannavaro, a pure defender was honored Ballon d'Or in 2006, a rare achievement. And the recognition of a school and a tradition, that of the Italian defensive style. Here is the interview made right after his crowning.

Luis Figo: "I developed my skills on the street"

The Portuguese attacking midfielder, who won the Ballon d'Or in 2000, sent shockwaves through the football world that same year by moving from Barcelona to Real Madrid. Beyond that seismic transfer, he defined an era with his devastating dribbles down the right flank.

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