Kane wins first Ballon d'Or as Putellas takes third women's award

England captain Harry Kane won the men's Ballon d'Or for the first time on Monday, while Spain's Alexia Putellas secured her third women's award at the 2026 ceremony in London.

Kane became the first Englishman to receive the prestigious individual honor since Michael Owen in 2001, ending a 25-year wait. The 33-year-old Bayern Munich striker was recognized after an outstanding 2025-26 season in which he scored 61 goals in 51 appearances for the German club, helping Bayern win the Bundesliga and German Cup.

Kane also scored six goals for England at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, helping the national team finish third. He registered a total of 73 goals in 65 appearances for club and country over the season.

"Wow, I'm almost speechless," Kane said after receiving the award at the London Palladium Theatre. "Being in London, it is extra special, it felt like a good omen."

The England captain thanked his teammates, coaches and former club Tottenham Hotspur, where he began his career as a youngster. He also paid an emotional tribute to his wife Kate, describing her as his biggest supporter.

"We're a team. I can't wait to celebrate tonight. I love you," Kane told his wife.

Reflecting on his career, Kane hoped his success would inspire young footballers, emphasizing that his journey to the top had not been straightforward.

"For any young boy or girl who wants to achieve their dream, anything is possible," he said.

Kane also received the Gerd Müller Trophy as the leading men's goalscorer. Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal finished third in the Ballon d'Or voting and won the Kopa Trophy for the third consecutive year.

In the women's category, Putellas added another Ballon d'Or to her previous victories in 2021 and 2022, becoming a three-time winner. The Spanish midfielder helped Barcelona secure a domestic treble and the Spanish Super Cup before moving to the London City Lionesses.

Putellas ended compatriot Aitana Bonmatí's three-year winning streak, which began in 2023.

Spain goalkeeper Unai Simón received the men's Yashin Trophy, while Barcelona's Cata Coll won the women's award. Spain coach Luis de la Fuente and Barcelona women's coach Pere Romeu received the respective Johan Cruyff Trophies.

Paris Saint-Germain was named men's Club of the Year, while Barcelona received the women's honor. Arsenal's Bukayo Saka was presented with the Sócrates Award for his charitable work.

The ceremony marked the 70th anniversary of the Ballon d'Or and the first time the event had been staged outside Paris.