Harry Kane wins Ballon d’Or as Putellas takes third women’s award

Harry Kane has won the men’s Ballon d’Or at the London Palladium, becoming the first English recipient since Michael Owen in 2001, according to reports issued on October 26–27. Alexia Putellas won the women’s award for the third time.

The Bayern Munich and England forward finished ahead of Kylian Mbappe, with Lamine Yamal taking third place. Kane also collected the award recognising the men’s striker of the year.

At 33, he joins an English winners’ list comprising Stanley Matthews, Bobby Charlton, Kevin Keegan and Owen. The reports differed on the day assigned to the ceremony but agreed on the outcome.

Goals underpin recognition for Kane and Putellas

Harry Kane scored 73 times in 65 matches for club and country during the season. His Bayern tally was 61 across competitions, helping the club secure the Bundesliga, German Cup and domestic Super Cup.

In the league, he contributed 36 goals as Bayern finished 16 points ahead of Borussia Dortmund. He also struck 14 times in the Champions League, where Bayern lost in the semi-finals to eventual champions Paris Saint-Germain.

His six goals at the World Cup took his overall tournament total to 14, moving him ahead of Gary Lineker among England’s men. England finished third after a semi-final defeat against Argentina.

At the ceremony, Kane thanked teammates, coaches and family members for their support. He also sent good wishes to Bayern manager Vincent Kompany, who was recovering after collapsing during training.

Putellas, now with London City Lionesses, was recognised following her final season at Barcelona. She scored 20 goals in 43 appearances and captained the side to four trophies, including the Champions League.

The Spain midfielder had previously won the individual honour in 2021 and 2022. She also helped her national team win the Women’s Nations League last December.

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