Following the nominees announcement, the FIFA The Best Awards 2025 ceremony occurred on December 17 in Doha, Qatar. Independiente Argentina's Santiago Montiel claimed the Puskás Award for his salto goal, while Indonesia's Rizky Ridho, the first nominee from the country, congratulated the winner sportingly on Instagram.
The FIFA The Best Awards 2025 took place on December 17, 2025, at Fairmont Katara Hall in Doha, Qatar, honoring top football achievements. As previewed earlier with nominees across categories, Santiago Montiel of Independiente Argentina won the Puskás Award for his stunning salto goal against Independiente Rivadavia in May 2025, determined by 50% fan votes and 50% FIFA Legends panel. He beat finalists Declan Rice and Lamine Yamal.
Persija Jakarta and Indonesia defender Rizky Ridho made history as Indonesia's first Puskás nominee for his long-range goal against Arema FC in Liga 1 2024-2025 but did not podium. On Instagram Story, he posted: “Terima kasih untuk semua dukungannya teman-teman” with a heart emoji, and “Rezekine cak Montiel,” earning praise for his graciousness.
Other winners: Ousmane Dembélé (Men's Player, PSG/France), Aitana Bonmatí (Women's Player, Barcelona/Spain), Luis Enrique (Men's Coach, PSG/Spain), Sarina Wiegman (Women's Coach, England/Netherlands), Gianluigi Donnarumma (Men's Goalkeeper, Manchester City/Italy), Hannah Hampton (Women's Goalkeeper, Chelsea/England), Lizbeth Ovalle (Marta Award, Orlando Pride/Mexico), Andreas Harlass-Neuking (Fair Play, Germany), and Zakho SC (Fan Award, Iraq). Indonesian media Skor.id contributed to voting, highlighting growing global recognition for Indonesian football amid European/South American dominance.
