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Harry Kane has made history by becoming the first English player to win the men\u2019s Ballon d\u2019Or since Michael Owen in 2001. He took home the prestigious award at a ceremony in London on Monday, outshining notable contenders like Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal.<\/p>\n
The 33-year-old striker from Bayern Munich enjoyed a remarkable season, netting 73 goals in 65 games for club and country during the 2025-26 season. Thanks to his incredible performance, he also clinched the European Golden Shoe as the top scorer across Europe\u2019s leagues.<\/p>\n
Kane is now among the elite group of Englishmen who have won the Ballon d\u2019Or, joining the likes of Sir Stanley Matthews, Sir Bobby Charlton, Kevin Keegan, and Owen. This win continues a fascinating pattern in the award’s history, as Lionel Messi remains the last player under 27 to secure the honor back in 2012.<\/p>\n
### KANE FEELS NERVOUS BEFORE THE EVENT<\/p>\n
As Kane arrived at the London Palladium, he knew he was a top contender but admitted feeling a bit nervous. Unlike the thrill of playing a match, he found the wait for the results challenging.<\/p>\n
“I’m a little nervous. It\u2019s different from playing a big game because it\u2019s out of my hands,” he confessed prior to the ceremony. Kane also reflected on a season filled with success, winning three trophies with Bayern Munich, while wishing for more.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt was definitely my best season. I won three trophies with Bayern Munich and got close to reaching the Champions League final and the World Cup semi-finals,\u201d he said. \u201cIf I had won those two, it would have been much easier.\u201d<\/p>\n
Despite his nerves, Kane expressed pride in his achievements and looked forward to celebrating with family and friends in London.<\/p>\n
### AN EMOTIONAL MOMENT ON STAGE<\/p>\n
When it was time for his acceptance speech, Kane felt a wave of emotions. He turned to his notes to help express his gratitude. <\/p>\n
“I’m almost speechless, but I have this list here. Thank you to France Football and the Ballon d\u2019Or for this fantastic event. Being here in London makes it even more special,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
Kane thanked everyone who voted for him, acknowledging the tough competition he faced this year. He credited his teammates for their support and emphasized that his achievement was a team effort.<\/p>\n
\u201cWithout you guys, it wouldn’t be possible. Your support and competition make me better,\u201d he stated, addressing his Bayern teammates.<\/p>\n
He also took a moment to wish the best for his manager, Vincent Kompany, who is currently recuperating after a health scare. \u201cVinny, I hope you\u2019re doing well. I hope this gave you a little boost,” Kane said.<\/p>\n
Kane recognized how much he has grown during his time at Bayern Munich, stating, \u201cI’ve improved as a player and a leader thanks to your guidance. It’s truly an honor to represent Bayern Munich.\u201d<\/p>\n
He concluded his speech by thanking his wife, Kate, for her unwavering support, saying, \u201cWe\u2019re in this together, and I couldn\u2019t have done it without you.\u201d<\/p>\n
### A SEASON TO REMEMBER<\/p>\n
During the 2025-26 season, Kane scored a remarkable 61 goals in all competitions for Bayern. His contributions helped the club secure the Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal, and Franz Beckenbauer Supercup titles. In the Champions League, he scored 14 goals, solidifying his reputation as one of the best.<\/p>\n
His success extended to international play, where Kane netted six goals at the 2026 World Cup, leading England to a third-place finish. This achievement made him England’s all-time top scorer in World Cup history, surpassing Gary Lineker.<\/p>\n
Kane also received the Men’s Striker of the Year award on the same night, highlighting his outstanding consistency and skill throughout the season.<\/p>\n
His journey to this point has not been easy, filled with challenges and loans before his move to Bayern Munich in 2023.<\/p>\n
### PUTELLAS WINS THE WOMEN’S BALLON D’OR<\/p>\n
In notable news, Alexia Putellas won the Women’s Ballon d\u2019Or for the third time, taking the award back after her teammate Aitana Bonmati won it in 2023 and 2024. Putellas, now with London City Lionesses after leaving Barcelona, was celebrated for her stellar performances, which included 20 goals in 43 appearances and leading her club to four trophies.<\/p>\n
\u201cThank you so much. It\u2019s an honor to be here again,\u201d she stated, recognizing her teammates and the strength of this year\u2019s nominees.<\/p>\n
### FULL LIST OF 2026 BALLON D\u2019OR WINNERS<\/p>\n
– Men\u2019s Ballon d\u2019Or: Harry Kane (Bayern Munich, England)
\n– Women\u2019s Ballon d\u2019Or: Alexia Putellas (Barcelona, now London City Lionesses)
\n– Men\u2019s Young Talent of the Year: Lamine Yamal (Barcelona, Spain)
\n– Women\u2019s Young Talent of the Year: Vicky Lopez (Barcelona, Spain)
\n– Men\u2019s Goalkeeper of the Year: Unai Simon (Athletic Club, Spain)
\n– Women\u2019s Goalkeeper of the Year: Cata Coll (Barcelona, Spain)
\n– Men\u2019s Coach of the Year: Luis de la Fuente (Spain)
\n– Women\u2019s Coach of the Year: Pere Romeu (Barcelona, Spain)
\n– Men\u2019s Club of the Year: Paris Saint-Germain (France)
\n– Women\u2019s Club of the Year: Barcelona (Spain)
\n– Men\u2019s Striker of the Year: Harry Kane (Bayern Munich, England)
\n– Women\u2019s Striker of the Year: Charlyn Corral (CF Pachuca, Mexico)
\n– Socrates Award: Bukayo Saka (Arsenal, England)<\/p>\n
This year\u2019s ceremony honored remarkable talents and celebrated achievements across the football world.
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