Harry Kane wins Ballon d'Or for first time since 2001

London residents gathered outside the London Palladium on Monday evening to watch Harry Kane collect the Ballon d'Or. The 33-year-old striker became the first Englishman to win the award since Michael Owen in 2001. Kane accepted the trophy after leading the voting among players and media members.

Kane earned the recognition for his record-breaking performance last season. He scored 73 goals for his club and country, a total that made him Europe's top scorer. His tally included a hat trick against Stuttgart in the German Cup final for Bayern Munich. He also scored six goals at the World Cup, surpassing Gary Lineker as England's all-time leading World Cup scorer.

The award ceremony marked the first time the event has been held in London. The location honored Stanley Matthews, the first winner of the prize in 1956. Fans filled the streets near Oxford Circus, climbing light poles to see the athletes arrive. They chanted Kane's name as he left the theater after midnight.

Kane credited his teammates, coaches, and family for the achievement. He specifically thanked his wife Kate, calling her his best friend and biggest supporter. He reflected on his early career, noting that his path to the top was not straightforward. "I had to fight my way to be the very best right now," he said. "I hope that can give you inspiration as well."

The winner was followed in the voting by Kylian Mbappé and Lamine Yamal. Yamal was also voted the best young talent for the third consecutive year. Other finalists included Rodri, who won in 2024, and Lionel Messi, the record eight-time winner. England coach Thomas Tuchel called Kane a lucky find for the national team. "I ran out of superlatives to describe your performances a long time ago," Tuchel said.

Earlier in the evening, Alexia Putellas won her third women's Ballon d'Or. The 32-year-old midfielder led her former club Barcelona to multiple trophies last season, including the Women's Champions League. She ended the three-year reign of teammate Aitana Bonmati. Putellas, who joined London City Lionesses in the offseason, urged young players to believe in themselves. "If you have a dream, go for it," she said.

Kane returned to Munich on Tuesday for team training. He has a cup match scheduled for Wednesday. He said he planned to celebrate with family and friends but kept the festivities brief due to the upcoming game. "It can't get too messy," he noted. The award caps a season in which Kane helped Bayern win the Bundesliga and German Cup double.

The ceremony highlighted the resurgence of English football on the global stage. Kane said the win was massive for his country. "To put us back on the map," he said, "I'm extremely proud." The event concluded with Kane signing autographs for fans who waited outside the venue.