Harry Kane has won football’s highest individual honour, the Ballon d’Or, after a record-breaking season that confirmed his standing as one of the game’s greatest goalscorers. The Bayern Munich and England striker received the award in London on Monday.
Kane is the first Englishman to win the prestigious award in 25 years, since Michael Owen claimed it in 2001. Spain midfielder Alexia Putellas also won the Ballon d’Or Feminin for the third time.
Speaking on stage, Kane said he was “almost speechless” and described the London setting as a good omen for the evening. He thanked those who had voted for him, acknowledging that the choice had been difficult this year.
Kane’s record campaign with Bayern Munich
Kane’s move to Bayern in 2023 brought the team trophies that had long eluded him. In the 2025-26 season, he paired that success with a level of goalscoring that made him the leading candidate for the award.
He scored 61 goals in 51 games for Bayern across all competitions, as the German club completed a domestic league and cup double. By the end of the season, he had established himself as Europe’s leading goalscorer.
Across club and country, Kane finished the campaign with 73 goals, a total rarely seen in the modern era. His goals came in matches of real significance, helping Bayern win trophies.
England captain’s influence at the World Cup
Kane’s influence extended well beyond club football. As England made another attempt to end decades without success at the World Cup, he once again became the side’s driving force.
He scored six goals during the tournament and led England to the semifinals. His finishing was combined with the leadership and composure that have defined his international career.
His path to the top was not straightforward. He struggled to establish himself at Tottenham Hotspur as a youngster and was sent out on numerous loans. He later developed into one of the most complete centre forwards of his generation, capable of scoring every type of goal while also working as a playmaker.
The field was strong. Kylian Mbappe broke World Cup scoring records, and Lamine Yamal helped Spain to World Cup glory. Voters nonetheless chose Kane, whose form lasted the entire season. At 33, he has also become England’s all-time leading marksman and their record World Cup scorer.
Putellas wins women’s award for third time
Putellas received the women’s award after winning the treble with Barcelona in the 2025-26 campaign, along with the Spanish Super Cup. In July, she moved to Women’s Super League side London City Lionesses after 14 years at Barca.
