Alexia Putellas was named the best female footballer in the world as she won the 2021 Ballon d’Or.
Putellas played an instrumental role in Barcelona’s treble-winning campaign with 26 goals in all competitions, and included a goal in the Champions League final victory over WSL champions Chelsea.
The Spanish midfielder was also elected as UEFA’s Women’s Player of the Year following her outstanding performances.
The 27-year-old beat her teammate Jennifer Hermoso, Chelsea’s in-form striker Sam Kerr and Arsenal’s Vivianne Miedema to win the award.
Chelsea’s Pernille Harder, Jessie Fleming and Fran Kirby ranked in seventh, ninth and 10th respectively.
The Spain international followed in the footsteps of two previous winners Ada Hegerberg and Megan Rapinoe.
“I’m very emotional, it’s a very special moment. I would like to start by thanking all my teammates, especially my current [Barcelona] teammates. For me it’s a collective success,” said Putellas.
“I’m sure I won’t be the last Barcelona player to win the prize. This is just the beginning.”
She embarked on her youth career at Barcelona and then Espanyol before establishing herself into the Periquitos’ first-team in 2010.
The Spaniard later joined Levante and scored 15 goals in 34 games in her breakthrough season in 2011/12.
Putellas’ re-joined the Catalans the following summer and since she returned they turned professional in 2015 and has also helped the club to deliver multiple titles.
Former Chelsea midfielder Karen Carney praised Putellas’ midfield contributions that stood her in good stead for this award.
“She has been brilliant for Barcelona,” said Carney.
“She has been phenomenal playing that attacking midfield role. She is so key to Barcelona – and she can get a goal or thread a pass.”