Harry Kane achieved his long-sought goal of securing football’s most coveted individual accolade on Monday, claiming the Ballon d’Or after an extraordinary season that solidified his reputation as one of the sport’s leading goal scorers.
<pHe is the first English player to win this prestigious accolade in a quarter-century, following Michael Owen’s victory in 2001.
“I am almost speechless. Being here in London has made it extra special, made it a good omen for me tonight. Thank you to everyone who voted for me. I can imagine it was tough this year. Some world-class players in the room tonight. Congratulations to all the winners and nominees tonight and an impressive showing of determination and hard work can really achieve,” Kane expressed upon receiving the honor.
Spanish midfielder Alexia Putellas took home the Ballon d’Or Féminin for a third time.
Kane’s transfer to Bayern Munich in 2023 brought him the silverware that had previously eluded him.
In the 2025-26 season, his exceptional performance made him the top candidate for the Ballon d’Or.
The England captain had his most prolific season yet, netting 61 times in 51 matches for Bayern across various competitions as the club secured a domestic league and cup double.
By the conclusion of the season, Kane was recognized as Europe’s leading scorer.
His impact extended beyond club competitions; he scored six goals during the World Cup, leading England to the semi-finals, showcasing his finishing skills alongside his leadership and calmness, which have marked his international career.
This award signifies the peak of an extraordinary journey. Few athletes have navigated a career path like Kane’s, and he expressed gratitude towards all his coaches, as well as Tottenham Hotspur and his wife, Kate, in an emotional speech.
Having struggled to find his footing at Spurs as a youth, often being loaned out, he evolved into one of the most well-rounded forwards of his time, demonstrating the ability to score in diverse ways and also contribute as a playmaker.
“It’s about the journey, anything is possible, work hard when nobody is watching. For any young boy or girl wanting to achieve their dreams, anything is possible. I wasn’t the kid who went straight to the top. I had to experience the downs. I had to find my way to be the very best right now,” Kane reflected.
The Ballon d’Or has typically honored players whose achievements were based on flair and showmanship; however, Kane’s recognition highlights his consistency, intelligence, and high-level productivity.
Game after game, he made decisive contributions. He avoided long slumps and had few quiet performances. His statistics were difficult to overlook.
Kane wrapped up the season with 73 goals for club and country, a remarkable achievement in modern football; more crucially, these goals came at vital moments, aiding Bayern in securing titles and propelling England deep into key tournaments.
This year’s competition for the award was intense. Kylian Mbappé shattered World Cup scoring records, and Lamine Yamal played a key role in Spain’s World Cup victory, yet voters ultimately favored Kane, whose excellence was apparent throughout the season.
Mbappé placed second, followed by Lamine, Rodri, and Lionel Messi.
Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappe could be the top men’s contenders for the 70th Ballon d’Or to be held in London. Rohith Nair explains https://t.co/tR5r2nmz7c
— Reuters (@Reuters) October 25, 2026
At 33, Kane has finally secured the sport’s highest personal accolade, augmenting a legacy that already ranks him among football’s greatest strikers, as England’s all-time leading scorer and record World Cup goal-scorer.
Putellas received the women’s award following her treble-winning season with Barcelona in 2025-26, along with a Spanish Super Cup title.
She joined Women’s Super League team London City Lionesses in July after a 14-year tenure at Barcelona.
Spanish players also took home the young talent awards, with Lamine winning his third trophy and Vicky Lopez earning the women’s award for the second consecutive year.
Spain’s coach Luis de la Fuente was honored as the men’s coach of the year, while Barcelona’s Pere Romeu received the women’s coaching accolade.
The men’s goalkeeper award was awarded to Unai Simon of Spain and Athletic Bilbao, while Cata Coll from Spain and Barcelona claimed the women’s honor.
Paris St Germain (PSG) was named men’s club of the year, while Barcelona won the women’s title.
Kane took home the men’s striker of the year award, while Charlyn Corral was recognized as the top women’s striker.
Arsenal and England winger Bukayo Saka was awarded the Socrates Award for his humanitarian efforts.
We’ve seen the brilliance of Ballon d’Or winner Harry Kane in the Premier League ✨ https://t.co/2aOPZNkuao
— Premier League (@premierleague) October 26, 2026
