Alexia Putellas’ Journey from ACL Injury to Her Third Ballon d'Or Triumph

On Monday, Alexia Putellas secured her third Ballon d'Or, capping a remarkable comeback to the top of women's football following a serious injury in 2022. This award recognizes her stellar role in guiding Barcelona to a historic quadruple in the 2025-26 season.

The Defining Moment in Bilbao

One of the most crucial moments for Putellas did not occur during the season she won the award but rather over two years prior. In the 2024 Women's Champions League final, as extra time ticked away, Barcelona held a 1-0 lead over eight-time champions Lyon. Manager Jonatan Giraldez brought on Putellas and Claudia Pina to help seal the victory. Soon after, they combined brilliantly; Pina delivered a perfect pass that Putellas finished with a powerful strike, securing the win and igniting celebration among the Barcelona supporters in Bilbao.

This moment symbolized much more than just a goal; it marked a turning point for Putellas after her painful recovery from an ACL rupture sustained in summer 2022, right before the European Championship. Despite facing nearly two difficult years, that goal felt like a release for her, enabling a return to top form and ultimately leading to her latest individual accolade.

The Injury and Recovery

The shock of Putellas’ ACL injury on July 5, 2022, was felt widely. News broke just before the Euros started, and soon scans confirmed the worst. Fans watched as she supported Spain from the sidelines, crutches in hand, while the team began their campaign. The recovery was long and arduous, sidelining her for about 10 months.

Her comeback wasn’t immediate; it took time to regain full confidence and physical fitness. At the 2023 Women’s World Cup, held less than three months after her return, Putellas was far from her dazzling best. Subsequent setbacks followed, including meniscus surgery in November, which led to another four-month absence during the 2023-24 season.

A Feeling of Freedom

The 2024 Champions League final goal represented liberation for Putellas. Beyond confirming her ability to influence the biggest matches again, it helped her mentally close the chapter on injuries. She told The Guardian that physically recovering was one thing, but mental strength was key: "Physically you can be good, but if mentally you’re not there, you’re tense, you can’t control yourself as you did." That day in Bilbao, she felt free, ready to move forward.

Reaching New Levels

Putellas returned stronger than ever. At the 2024 Olympics, she stood out as Spain’s top player, signaling a bright future. During the 2024-25 season, she scored 27 goals and assisted 21 times, helping Barcelona claim a domestic treble and reach another Champions League final. Many thought she deserved the Ballon d’Or that year, though Aitana Bonmati ultimately won.

Reflecting on her progress, Putellas said, "My level is completely different," comparing her early post-injury form to her performance in 2024-25. She described regaining a sense of security and confidence that made her feel capable of anything.

Consistency and Leadership in Final Barcelona Season

In 2025-26, Putellas continued her high-level play, registering 24 goals and 13 assists while leading Barcelona to another domestic treble and a fourth Champions League title. She also played a vital role in Spain’s Nations League victory.

With key teammates injured—Bonmati out for five months and Patri Guijarro sidelined for three—Putellas stepped up in midfield and mentored younger players. Esmee Brugts, one of Barcelona’s rising stars, praised her leadership both on and off the pitch, noting how demanding she is of herself and others during training and matches.

Memorable Performances

• Nations League semi-final: Decisive free-kick goal against Sweden
• Real Madrid clashes: Three goals and three assists in nine days
• Champions League semi-finals: Key display against Bayern Munich
• Spain vs England (June): Two goals securing direct World Cup qualification, pushing England into playoffs

Putellas shines brightest when stakes are highest, showing flair through effortless dribbling, precise passing, and composed finishing that ranges from exquisite volleys to calm first-time strikes.

The Legacy of That Evening in Bilbao

Everything seems to trace back to May 2024, when the weight of injury struggles lifted with one elegant strike from Putellas’ left foot. That night transformed her career, allowing her to once again display the brilliance that defines her as a player. Her third Ballon d'Or stands as a well-earned recognition of this journey.