Alcaraz names Yamal, Raphinha in Ballon d’Or top three

|By Babatunji Wusu-

-PSG’s Dembele also makes the cut
-Tennis champ backs Barcelona duo to challenge for football’s biggest prize

Tennis sensation Carlos Alcaraz has thrown his weight behind two Barcelona stars—Lamine Yamal and Raphinha—as strong contenders for the 2025 Ballon d’Or.

Alcaraz also tipped Paris Saint-Germain forward Ousmane Dembele to complete his top three list of players deserving of the prestigious individual football award.

According to Mundo Deportivo, the 21-year-old tennis prodigy shared his picks during an interview, which was later quoted by BBC Sports.

“Top three Ballon d’Or—Yamal, Dembele and Raphinha,” Alcaraz said.

All three players have had standout seasons. Dembele helped PSG secure a historic treble, lifting Ligue 1, the Coupe de France, and the UEFA Champions League.

Meanwhile, Yamal and Raphinha were instrumental in Barcelona’s domestic dominance, securing both the LaLiga title and the Copa del Rey.

The Ballon d’Or ceremony is expected to take place in September, with global football fans eagerly awaiting the official shortlist and final verdict.