The FIFA Ballon d'Or ceremony was held on Oct. 26, with Bayern Munich striker and England captain Harry Kane receiving the honour. It is the first time Kane has won football's highest individual accolade, marking a new pinnacle in the England captain's career.
Kane was visibly emotional at the ceremony, saying he was almost lost for words. He thanked all the voters and supporters, stressing that determination and hard work can truly achieve greatness.
The 2025-26 season was the finest of Kane's career. At Bayern Munich, he scored 61 goals in 51 appearances, leading the club to the Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal titles — a domestic double. At international level, Kane scored six goals at the World Cup, guiding England to the semi-finals. Across the season, he scored 73 goals for club and country combined, setting a personal scoring record.
Kane's Ballon d'Or win is also seen as recognition of his years of perseverance. Early in his career, he struggled to establish himself at Tottenham and was loaned out several times. Through years of hard work and development, he gradually became one of the most complete strikers of his generation. After joining Bayern Munich in 2023, Kane finally won his first major club trophy, and his career reached new heights.
Kane was already England's all-time top scorer and the World Cup scoring record holder. Winning the Ballon d'Or further cements his status as one of the greatest strikers of his era.
Spanish midfielder Alexia Putellas won the Women's Ballon d'Or for the third time. In the 2025-26 season, Putellas helped Barcelona Femení win a treble of the league, cup, and Super Cup.
(Video source: X)
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