The England captain reflects on years of setbacks and self-belief after receiving football’s top individual honour, with Thomas Tuchel praising his achievement.

England captain Harry Kane has won the men’s Ballon d’Or, capping a career marked by persistence, hard work and consistent goalscoring. 

Kane, also claimed the men’s Striker of the Year award, said the recognition wast especially meaningful after overcoming doubts and setbacks earlier in his career.

While speaking the striker admitted that he had not always been viewed as a future superstar.

 He said his journey involved numerous ups and downs, adding that self-belief, determination and a commitment to continuous improvement helped him reach the highest level of the game.

Kane stressed that winning the Ballon d’Or would not change his approach to football, insisting that his focus remained on improving, scoring goals and winning matches.

 He described the award as a showcase of the progress he had made throughout his career.

England manager Thomas Tuchel congratulated Kane, saying the striker’s performances had long spoken for themselves. Tuchel described the award as a huge honour and highlighted the significance of Kane becoming the first Englishman in 25 years to receive the men’s prize, according to the supplied report.

Other winners included Alexia Putellas, who claimed the women’s Ballon d’Or, while Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona were named men’s and women’s clubs of the year respectively. Bukayo Saka received the Socrates Award, Unai Simón and Cata Coll won the goalkeeper prizes, and Lamine Yamal and Vicky López were named the men’s and women’s young talents of the year.

The coaching awards went to Spain manager Luis de la Fuente and Barcelona women’s coach Pere Romeu, while Charlyn Corral won the women’s Striker of the Year award. 

The ceremony celebrated individual excellence across men’s and women’s football, with Kane’s victory standing out as a milestone for English football.