Harry Kane is England’s first Ballon d’Or winner since Michael Owen in 2001.
The England captain beat Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappe to the award after scoring 73 goals for club and country last season.
Harry Kane described his Ballon d’Or win as dreamlike on Tuesday, as football figures celebrated the England captain’s achievement. He became the first Englishman to claim the honour since Michael Owen in 2001.
The Bayern Munich forward beat Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappe at London’s Palladium theatre on Monday night. He also collected the men’s striker of the year award.
Kane, 33, scored 73 goals in 65 appearances for club and country last season. His goals helped Bayern secure a German league and cup double. Meanwhile, he scored six times as England finished third at the World Cup in North America.
Kane reflects on Ballon d’Or win
Speaking on Tuesday, Kane said he was still absorbing the significance of the ceremony. He described the announcement as a mixture of relief, happiness, joy and excitement.
The forward also recalled the nerves he felt while waiting for the winner’s name. However, sharing the moment with those inside the theatre made the occasion particularly meaningful.
Wembley marked his achievement with an illuminated tribute, while England’s official X account celebrated him as the world’s best footballer.
William and Tuchel praise England captain
Prince William, patron of the Football Association, congratulated Kane in an Instagram message. He praised both his captaincy and the memorable moments he has given football supporters worldwide.
England manager Thomas Tuchel also welcomed the recognition, saying Kane’s performances had long exhausted his supply of superlatives. Tuchel managed Bayern when the former Tottenham striker joined the German club in 2023.
He said the 25-year wait for another English winner made the honour especially significant. The England boss added that the national team was fortunate to have Kane leading it.
International teammates joined the tributes, with Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice praising Kane’s exceptional quality. Chelsea’s Morgan Rogers, meanwhile, described him as the best ever.
Bayern celebrates place among club greats
Bayern president Herbert Hainer celebrated Kane’s addition to the club’s list of Ballon d’Or winners. That group includes Franz Beckenbauer, Gerd Muller and Karl-Heinz Rummenigge.
Hainer also praised Kane’s versatility, scoring record and character, highlighting the success player and club have achieved together.
Former Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp, meanwhile, stressed that Kane offers much more than goals. He praised the striker’s overall play, relationships with teammates and leadership as England captain.
