In brief
Harry Kane was crowned the world’s best player at a ceremony in London, making history as the first Englishman to win the Ballon d’Or since Michael Owen in 2001. The 27‑year‑old striker netted 61 goals in 51 club matches, the most by a Bayern Munich player in a campaign. England’s recent semi‑final run at the World Cup added to the triumph. French forward Kylian Mbappe finished second and Spain’s Lamine Yamal took third place. Kane’s win could spark a new era for English football, potentially ending a long trophy drought for the national team.
Harry Kane has become the first English player to claim the Ballon d’Or trophy since Michael Owen received it in 2001, after a spectacular season with Bayern Munich and England. He was presented with the award by organisers in a ceremony held at Wembley Stadium in London.
Kane scored an astonishing 61 goals in 51 club matches, the most ever by a Bayern Munich player in a single campaign. His prolific form helped the club reach the final of the Champions League and earn a semi‑final place with England at the World Cup.
French star Kylian Mbappe took second place, while Spanish teenager Lamine Yamal finished third. The result is seen by many as a landmark moment for English football, potentially ending a long trophy drought for the national side.
Read more about how Kane’s triumph could change England’s fortunes: Harry Kane ends England’s trophy drought
