Harry Kane has received praise from Jamie Carragher after making history at the 2026 men’s Ballon d’Or ceremony in London. The Bayern Munich striker became the first English winner since Michael Owen claimed the award in 2001.
Kane beat strong competition to lift football’s most prestigious individual prize. Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe finished second, while Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal took third place.
The victory marks a major moment for English football. After 25 years without a men’s winner, Kane has finally ended the long wait. Former Liverpool defender and Sky Sports pundit Carragher also celebrated the striker’s remarkable achievement.
Carragher delighted as Kane makes history
Carragher quickly praised Kane after the England captain secured the award. He highlighted the striker’s outstanding career and England’s limited success in the Ballon d’Or rankings.
“Absolutely delighted. What a career he’s had, what a player he is, and as a country, we haven’t got enough Ballon d’Or winners,” Carragher said.
The former England international also reflected on the long gap since an English player last won the prize. His former Liverpool team-mate Owen claimed the award in 2001.
“It’s certainly been a long time. My former team-mate Michael Owen was the last to win it in 2001, so it’s been a long wait,” he added.
Carragher also backed Jude Bellingham to follow Kane’s example in the coming years. He believes England have two players capable of reaching the highest level of individual success.
“But in terms of Harry Kane, and I think Jude Bellingham, who’s going to be a future Ballon d’Or winner, we do have two of the greatest players of their era.
“I’m delighted for Kane and the country.”
Kane’s remarkable journey to the top
Kane’s Ballon d’Or success rewards years of hard work, consistency and outstanding goalscoring. His journey also shows how persistence can help a player reach the top of world football.
Since joining Bayern Munich in August 2023, Kane has continued to shine among Europe’s elite. He scored 73 goals for club and country during the 2025/26 season, including 61 for Bayern Munich.
However, his rise did not happen overnight. Kane endured several loan spells early in his career before establishing himself as one of football’s most prolific forwards.
The 33-year-old struggled to hide his emotions during the ceremony in London. He also reflected on his journey while accepting the prestigious award.
“Wow, I’m almost speechless. First of all, thanks again to France Football and the Ballon d’Or for this amazing event. Being in London, it is extra special; it felt like a good omen,” Kane said.
He also encouraged aspiring footballers to stay committed to their ambitions. Drawing on his own experiences, Kane explained why determination matters.
“My journey wasn’t straightforward, I didn’t go straight to the top, I had to experience a lot of loan moves and fight my way to get to where I am now.
“I hope that can give you inspiration, and thank you very much.”
Kane credits team-mates for Ballon d’Or success
Although Kane won football’s biggest individual honour, he was quick to recognise the people who helped him reach the top. He praised his team-mates at Bayern Munich and England for supporting his performances.
Speaking at a press conference after the ceremony, Kane admitted that he felt overwhelmed while waiting for presenter Ronaldo to announce the winner.
“My heart was beating fast and I was just hoping that he would say my name. It’s beyond my wildest dreams,” he said.
Kane also highlighted the importance of playing alongside talented attackers. He explained how their movement and creativity help him find scoring opportunities.
“I’m lucky and blessed to be surrounded by incredible players, incredible people, both with the national team and with Bayern Munich,” he said.
“When you have players like Michael Olise around you, Lucho (Luis Diaz) and these guys, Bukayo (Saka) and Jude (Bellingham) and all the top, top players assisting me and putting me in positions and dragging defenders away, they obviously allow me to then express myself.”
He added: “As much as this is an individual award, I’ll give thanks to them because it wouldn’t be possible without any of them and that’s what makes a team.”
Putellas makes history in women’s Ballon d’Or
Kane was not the only player celebrating a historic night in London, as Alexia Putellas claimed the women’s Ballon d’Or for a third time.
The Spain international joins compatriot Aitana Bonmati as one of only two players to have won the women’s award three times, further cementing her status among the greatest players of her generation.
Putellas enjoyed another outstanding campaign, captaining Barcelona to a quadruple last season before completing her move to London City Lionesses during the 2026 summer transfer window.
Her latest triumph also brings the prestigious individual honour to the Women’s Super League, providing a major boost to the profile of women’s football in England.
Speaking after receiving the award, Putellas delivered an empowering message to young players around the world.
“All the boys and girls around the world – if you love football and if you want to play football, play football. It doesn’t matter if you’re a boy or if you’re a girl,” she said.
“Doesn’t matter where you come from. Don’t listen if someone tells you, you can’t do it.
“Believe in yourself.”
With Kane ending England’s long wait for a men’s Ballon d’Or winner and Putellas adding another milestone to her remarkable career, the London ceremony proved a memorable occasion for both English football and the women’s game.
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