England soccer player Harry Kane has been crowned Striker of the Year at the Ballon d’Or ceremony at the London Palladium Theatre. Kane is the first Englishman in 25 years to win the Ballon d’Or, thanks to his impressive scoring record. He scored 73 goals last season, making him Europe’s top scorer. Kane set records in Germany with Bayern Munich and led England to a third-place finish at the World Cup.
The 33-year-old Kane reflected on his journey to success, emphasizing hard work during unseen moments and the resilience needed to overcome challenges. He shared, “My journey wasn’t straightforward. I had to fight my way to be the very best right now. I hope that can give you inspiration as well.”
Kane was followed in the voting by Kylian Mbappé, Lamine Yamal, Rodri, and Lionel Messi. Kane expressed gratitude to his teammates, coaches, and family, especially his wife Kate, highlighting their support through successes and challenges.
During the last season, Kane led Bayern to a Bundesliga and German Cup double, scoring a hat trick in the cup final against Stuttgart. In the World Cup, he scored six goals, surpassing Gary Lineker as England’s all-time leading World Cup scorer. England’s semifinal loss to Argentina was followed by a victory over France for third place, the best World Cup result for England in 60 years.
The last Englishman to win the Ballon d’Or was Michael Owen in 2001. Kane said, “It’s massive for England, for our country… To put us back on the map with this trophy, I’m extremely proud.” England coach Thomas Tuchel praised Kane, noting the team’s fortune in having him as their leader.
The ceremony attracted numerous fans who lined the streets near the London Palladium, eager to see the athletes. Kane stopped for autographs and acknowledged the fans’ support. He planned to celebrate briefly with family and friends before returning to training in Munich.
The ceremony returned to London to honor the first winner 70 years ago, England’s Stanley Matthews. Meanwhile, Spain’s Alexia Putellas won her third women’s Ballon d’Or. Putellas, previously with Barcelona, now plays for the London City Lionesses. She led her team to various victories and helped Spain win the Women’s Nations League.
Putellas ended Aitana Bonmati’s three-year streak as the winner of the women’s Ballon d’Or. Bonmati was not nominated this year, following an injury. Encouraging young players, Putellas advised them to approach soccer with “love and passion” and to pursue their dreams. Putellas reflected on her 14 years with Barcelona as a “perfect story.”