Aitana Bonmatí: From the shadows to centre stage

Aitana Bonmatí saw her hard work and effort recognised on Monday when she became the fourth different player to win the Women's Ballon d'Or.

There may have been little doubt in the weeks leading up to the awards, but in Monday’s ceremony, the unofficial was confirmed, the player from the small town of Sant Pere de Ribes, near Barcelona, was crowned the winner of the 2023 Women’s Ballon d'Or. 

Upon the announcement, former Chelsea striker Didier Drogba, one of the presenters at the ceremony, urged a shy-looking Bonmatí to take centre stage and soak up the applause. Perhaps, that endearing moment was a great reflection of Bonmatí’s career. Although she may now be the star of the show, it has not always been this way.