Vicky López has cemented her status as the world’s premier young female footballer by claiming the Ballon d’Or Young Talent of the Year award for the second consecutive season. The 20-year-old Barcelona midfielder collected the trophy at the 70th ceremony held Monday at the London Palladium, marking a historic achievement in the sport’s evolving landscape. By winning in both 2025 and 2026, López has achieved a 100% success rate in a category that has only existed for two years, making her the sole recipient of the honor in its brief history.
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Her dominance on the pitch was undeniable during the 2025/26 campaign, where she emerged as a cornerstone of Pere Romeu’s tactical setup. The Madrid native made 45 appearances for the Blaugrana, starting 31 of those matches, and contributed significantly with 12 goals. This consistency and high-level performance against elite opposition underscored why France Football recognized her as the best female player under the age of 21 globally. Her ability to maintain such a high output while adapting to the demands of top-tier competition highlights her rapid development and maturity.
Accepting the award, López demonstrated her humility by crediting her teammates for her individual success, stating, “This award would not be possible without my team mates who make me better.” She also paid tribute to her family, specifically thanking her mother for her foundational guidance. This victory not only reinforces López’s personal brand but also highlights FC Barcelona’s continued excellence in developing world-class female talent. As the only player to have won this specific accolade twice, López has set a new benchmark for young athletes in women’s football.
Source: Official FC Barcelona Website
