OMM Newsroom
Harry Kane has won the 2026 Ballon d’Or. From a young player who struggled to break into Tottenham’s first team to one of the most prolific strikers in football history, Kane has reached a new milestone in his career.
The Bayern and England striker is the first English player to win the award in 25 years. Michael Owen was the previous English winner, in 2001. Kane said the moment had left him stunned as he accepted the award, AnewZ reported.
“Wow, wow, wow! I’m almost lost for words. Being in London made this moment even more special. This night has brought me good fortune. Thank you to everyone who voted for me. I can imagine it was difficult to choose this year,” Kane said.
He also thanked the other nominees: “There are world-class footballers here tonight. Congratulations to all the winners and nominees. It is inspiring to see what determination and hard work can achieve.”
Kane’s prolific season
Kane scored 61 goals in 51 appearances for Bayern in the 2025-26 season. He helped the German club complete a domestic double by winning the league and cup.
The tally made him European football’s leading scorer and one of the leading contenders for the award. Kane scored consistently across several competitions during the season as Bayern collected trophies.
The award also reflects how Kane’s career changed after he joined Bayern in 2023. He had achieved individual success but had few team trophies; his move to Germany gave him the chance to add to his honours.
A key role for England
Kane’s impact was not limited to club football. He led England’s attack at the World Cup, scoring six goals as the team reached the semi-finals. His performances highlighted his role for the national side both as a scorer and captain.
By the end of the season, Kane had scored 73 goals for club and country. The source described the tally as a rare achievement in modern football. His goals helped Bayern win trophies and England progress at the sport’s biggest international tournament.
The Ballon d’Or marks another milestone in Kane’s career, built on perseverance. Early in his career, he went on several loan spells away from Tottenham in search of regular playing time. Few expected then that he would become one of the defining strikers of his era.
Kane later developed into a striker capable of scoring, creating chances for teammates and influencing games through his movement and tactical awareness. The source said his award, traditionally associated with players celebrated for individual talent, underscores the value of productivity, consistency and high-level performances throughout the season.
Several prominent players were in contention for this year’s award. Kylian Mbappe set new scoring records at the World Cup, while Lamine Yamal played a key role in Spain becoming world champions. Kane nevertheless won the vote after performing at a high level in both domestic and international competitions during the season.
The 33-year-old has added the Ballon d’Or to his status as England’s all-time leading scorer and the country’s top scorer at World Cups.
Putellas wins women’s award
Spain midfielder Alexia Putellas won the women’s Ballon d’Or for the third time in her career. She won three titles with Barcelona in the 2025-26 season and also claimed the Spanish Super Cup.
Putellas joined Women’s Super League club London City Lionesses in July after 14 years at Barcelona. The achievement further strengthens her position among the most decorated players in women’s football.
