The Ballon d’Or gala has long been a celebration where football and culture intertwine, and this year’s event at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris upheld that tradition, according to Soccernet.ng.
Nigerian influence has consistently echoed through the French football awards, from the nominations of stars like Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman to Rema’s captivating performance of ‘Calm Down’ in 2023.
This evening, that legacy persisted. Although no male Nigerian players were shortlisted, Super Falcons’ goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie secured fourth place in the Women’s Yacine Trophy category, while the team’s head coach, Justine Madugu, was edged out by England’s Sarina Wiegman for the Coach of the Year honor.
Chiamaka Nnadozie making her entrance at the #BallonDor ceremony tonight pic.twitter.com/AQqEbyV2F2
– Soar Super Eagles (@SSE_NGA) September 22, 2025
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Adding to the night’s star power, Afrobeats sensation Adekunle Almoruf Kosoko, widely known as Adekunle Gold, graced the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris in a sharp tuxedo. The artist behind hits like ‘High,’ ‘Something Different,’ and ‘Party No Dey Stop’ mingled with football’s elite.
Despite being a devoted Manchester United supporter, Adekunle Gold was spotted sharing a warm moment with Liverpool’s defender Virgil Van Dijk before the 2025 Ballon d’Or ceremony commenced.
Virgil Van Dijk enjoying a special moment with Adekunle Gold at the Ballon d’Or pic.twitter.com/zaB3IFQNxK
– @ (@OneJoblessBoy) September 22, 2025
The 38-year-old musician was also seen in conversation with Mario Guardiola, daughter of Manchester City’s Pep Guardiola, highlighting the blend of football royalty and musical artistry.
Adekunle Gold at the 2025 Ballon d’Or ceremony in France. pic.twitter.com/lGHdyzLQ5P
– shaka (@shxkxbabu) September 22, 2025
Adekunle Gold’s connection to the football community is well-established, with numerous players frequently sharing their love for Afrobeats in locker rooms and on social media platforms.
Van Dijk himself has openly expressed admiration for Nigerian artists, having previously shown enthusiasm for Fireboy DML and Burna Boy’s music on X. He was also spotted enjoying Asake’s ‘Organize’ during training sessions at Liverpool’s AXA facility.
Not new to football circles, Adekunle Gold has attended numerous Manchester United matches and was recently spotted enjoying time with Victor Osimhen and former United defender Patrice Evra in Turkey.
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