Kane and Putellas win Ballon d’Or awards

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Harry Kane won the men’s Ballon d’Or on Monday (October 26), capping a record-breaking season with Bayern Munich and England. Spain midfielder Alexia Putellas claimed the women’s award for the third time.

Kane became the first Englishman in 25 years to receive the prestigious honour, following Michael Owen’s victory in 2001.

Speaking after receiving the award in London, Kane expressed his gratitude to voters and congratulated the other winners and nominees, saying the achievement felt especially meaningful.

The Bayern striker enjoyed the most prolific season of his career in 2025–26, scoring 61 goals in 51 appearances across all competitions as the German club secured both the domestic league and cup titles.

His move to Bayern in 2023 helped him win team trophies that had eluded him earlier in his career. He also continued to lead England’s attack, scoring six goals at the World Cup as the national side reached the semi-finals.

Kane ended the campaign with 73 goals for club and country, strengthening his reputation as one of the world’s leading forwards. His journey to the top followed an uncertain start at Tottenham Hotspur, where several loan spells preceded his rise to become a prolific scorer and playmaker.

This year’s competition included Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal, but voters ultimately favoured Kane’s consistency and overall output throughout the season.

At 33, the England captain adds the Ballon d’Or to a career in which he has become his country’s all-time leading goalscorer and record World Cup scorer.

Putellas won the women’s Ballon d’Or after helping Barcelona secure a treble during the 2025–26 season, along with the Spanish Super Cup. She joined Women’s Super League club London City Lionesses in July after spending 14 years at Barcelona.