Cristiano Ronaldo Stuns Fans: “I Will Give the Ballon d’Or to Dembélé” — Here’s Why

In a moment that left reporters in disbelief and fans scrambling to replay the clip, Cristiano Ronaldo made a bold and unexpected statement during a post-match interview last night:

“If it were up to me, I would give the Ballon d’Or to Ousmane Dembélé. He deserves it.”

The remark, coming from one of football’s most decorated and competitive figures, has taken the sports world by storm. Ronaldo — who has five Ballon d’Or trophies of his own — has never been one to casually hand out praise. So why now? Why Dembélé?

🎯 The Context: A Star Among Stars

The comment came after Al-Nassr’s exhibition match against PSG, where Dembélé was the clear standout, scoring twice and assisting another in a thrilling 3-3 draw.

Ronaldo, despite scoring a trademark header, seemed more focused on what Dembélé did on the pitch.

“He plays with freedom, intelligence, and fire,” Ronaldo said. “He’s matured. I’ve seen a lot of great talents fade, but he rose from every injury, every critic. That takes more than talent — that takes character.”

🔥 The Praise Heard Around the World

Football fans — and pundits — were stunned by the endorsement. Dembélé, 28, has had a career riddled with injuries, doubters, and transfers. Yet this season, he’s been on fire for both Paris Saint-Germain and France’s national team, playing key roles in their Champions League and Euro campaigns.

Ronaldo’s comments, however, weren’t just about stats.

“When I watch Dembélé now, I see someone who doesn’t just want to win — he wants to inspire,” Ronaldo said. “That’s Ballon d’Or material.”

🏆 Could Dembélé Actually Win It?

Analysts now say Dembélé is a real contender. With 19 goals and 22 assists across all competitions, and a sparkling Euro 2024 performance, he’s building a strong case.

But until Ronaldo’s remark, most attention was focused on other frontrunners like Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappé, and even Ronaldo himself, who’s had an astonishing goal tally in Saudi Arabia this season.

Now, the narrative is shifting.

🗣️ Dembélé Responds: “I Don’t Know What to Say”

When asked about Ronaldo’s praise after PSG training, Dembélé was visibly humbled:

“Cristiano is a legend. To hear those words from him… it’s unbelievable. I grew up watching him. I don’t know what to say. Just thank you.”

🤔 A Humble Flex — or Something Deeper?

Some fans are speculating that Ronaldo’s comment was more than just admiration — perhaps a message to voters, or even a signal that he’s stepping back from chasing individual awards as he enters the final chapter of his career.

Others believe it’s a reflection of Ronaldo’s evolving leadership — not just as a player, but as an ambassador for the game.

“This is the side of Cristiano people don’t talk about enough,” said former teammate Nani. “He knows how much weight his words carry. This was a gesture of real respect.”

⚽ Final Whistle: A Torch Passed?

Whether or not Dembélé ends up lifting the Ballon d’Or this year, one thing is clear: when one of the greatest players of all time offers you his crown — even metaphorically — the world pays attention.

And for Ousmane Dembélé, that may be the biggest win of all.