Harry Kane has made history by becoming the first English player to win the men’s Ballon d’Or since Michael Owen in 2001. He achieved this prestigious honor during a ceremony in London on Monday, outshining notable players like Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal.
At 33 years old, the Bayern Munich striker had an incredible season, netting 73 goals in 65 matches across all competitions for both club and country during the 2025-26 season. His efforts also earned him the European Golden Shoe, recognizing him as the top scorer in Europe’s domestic leagues.
With this win, Kane joins an elite group of English footballers, becoming only the fifth to receive the Ballon d’Or, alongside legends like Sir Stanley Matthews, Sir Bobby Charlton, Kevin Keegan, and Owen. His victory also highlighted a fascinating aspect of the award’s history – Lionel Messi was the last player under 27 to win the men’s Ballon d’Or back in 2012.
### KANE FEELS NERVOUS PRE-CEREMONY
Before the award was announced, Kane expressed his nerves about the event, sharing that it felt different compared to playing in a match, where he typically can influence the outcome.
“I’m a little nervous, to be honest. It’s different from playing a big game because I can’t control this,” he said.
Reflecting on a season that brought three trophies with Bayern Munich, Kane recognized that while he’s proud of his accomplishments, there were even bigger prizes he wished to achieve.
“It was definitely my best season. I won three trophies with Bayern Munich and came close to reaching the Champions League final and the World Cup semi-final,” Kane mentioned. “If I had secured those titles, it would have been a guaranteed win.”
Regardless of the night’s outcome, Kane was excited to celebrate the moment with his family and friends.
### KANE’S TOUCHING ACCEPTANCE SPEECH
As Kane accepted his award, he found himself nearly speechless, referring to notes he had prepared for his speech.
“I’m almost at a loss for words. Thankfully, I have this list here. Thank you to France Football for hosting this amazing event. Being here in London makes it even more special,” he expressed.
In his speech, he showed gratitude to everyone who voted for him and acknowledged the tough competition he faced.
“Thank you to all who voted for me. I know it wasn’t easy this year, with so many incredible players here tonight,” he said.
Kane also emphasized that his individual success was a result of teamwork and the support of his Bayern Munich colleagues.
“Without my teammates, none of this would be possible. You all push me, and I appreciate that,” he added, also sending well wishes to manager Vincent Kompany, who has been recovering after a health scare.
“I hope you’re doing well, Vinny. I hope this trophy brings you some positive energy,” he said.
Kane also acknowledged his growth as a player and a person during his time at Bayern, expressing pride in representing the club.
“I’ve improved so much as a player and leader. It’s a real privilege to wear the Bayern Munich shirt and to bring this trophy home,” he concluded, also thanking his wife, Kate, for her unwavering support.
### KANE’S OUTSTANDING SEASON
During the 2025-26 season, Kane made a significant mark at Bayern, scoring 61 goals across all competitions and helping the team clinch the Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal, and Franz Beckenbauer Supercup. He also contributed 14 goals in the Champions League, where Bayern made it to the semi-finals.
Kane’s excellence wasn’t confined to club football; he scored six goals during the 2026 World Cup, leading England to a third-place finish. This achievement brought his World Cup total to 14 goals, making him England’s top scorer in the tournament’s history.
In addition to the Ballon d’Or, Kane was also honored with the Men’s Striker of the Year award, celebrating his impressive finishing and consistent performance throughout the season. His journey to success included several clubs and loan spells, with a special mention to Russell Slade, who coached him during his time at Leyton Orient.
### PUTELLAS WINS WOMEN’S BALLON D’OR
On the women’s side, Alexia Putellas claimed her third Women’s Ballon d’Or, returning to the spotlight after Aitana Bonmati won the award in the previous two years.
Now playing for London City Lionesses after leaving Barcelona, the 32-year-old was recognized for her exceptional performances in the 2025-26 season, where she scored 20 goals in 43 appearances and led her team to four trophies.
“I’m so grateful to be here again. Thank you, France Football,” Putellas said in her speech, echoing her appreciation for her teammates and the competitive spirit of the nominees.
Barcelona shone at the awards, with several accolades, including Lamine Yamal winning the Men’s Young Talent of the Year award and Vicky Lopez taking home the women’s equivalent.
Overall, it was a night of celebration for amazing talent in football, recognizing extraordinary achievements both on and off the pitch.
