London, 27 October (H.S.): Spanish football star Alexia Putellas has made history by winning the Women’s Ballon d’Or for the third time. The former Barcelona and Spain midfielder received the prestigious 2026 award at a ceremony held at the London Palladium on Monday. She had previously won the accolade in 2021 and 2022.

The 32-year-old enjoyed an outstanding season, winning four major trophies with Barcelona: Liga F, the Copa de la Reina, the Spanish Super Cup and the UEFA Women’s Champions League. Spain’s national team also continued its impressive run under her leadership, winning the UEFA Women’s Nations League and finishing runners-up at the UEFA Women’s European Championship.

Upon receiving the award, Putellas expressed her gratitude to her teammates, acknowledging the exceptional talent among the players present at the ceremony.

“First of all, I want to thank my teammates. I think every player here deserved to win this award and could be standing here delivering this speech. It is an absolute pleasure to play alongside all of you,” she said.

She added that the team had overcome numerous challenges, injuries and unforeseen circumstances during the season. As captain, she said she was proud of her teammates and treasured the experiences they had shared on and off the pitch.

Putellas Delivers a Powerful Message to Young Players

Putellas also used the occasion to encourage aspiring footballers around the world to pursue their ambitions, regardless of their gender or background.

“I want to tell boys and girls around the world that if you love football and want to play, you should go for it. It does not matter whether you are a boy or a girl, or where you come from. If someone tells you that you cannot do it, do not listen to them. Believe in yourself,” she said.

Her message underscored the importance of self-belief, equal opportunities and determination in helping young players pursue careers in football.

A New Chapter in London After Barcelona Success

The award held particular significance for Putellas as the ceremony took place in London, where she has embarked on a new chapter in her career. After winning 36 trophies with Barcelona, she joined Women’s Super League side London City Lionesses this year, bringing her celebrated spell with the Spanish club to a close.

She departed Barcelona as the most decorated female player in the club’s history, having played a pivotal role in its domestic and European successes.

With her third Women’s Ballon d’Or, Putellas has also drawn level with fellow Spaniard Aitana Bonmatí, who completed a hat-trick of consecutive wins last year. Both players now have three Women’s Ballon d’Or titles to their names, further highlighting Spain’s prominence in women’s football.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar