Harry Kane and Alexia Putellas have claimed the top honors at this year’s Ballon d’Or ceremony, recognizing outstanding seasons in men’s and women’s football.
Kane secured his first men’s Ballon d’Or after a remarkable campaign with Bayern Munich and England, finishing ahead of Kylian Mbappé and Lamine Yamal. Putellas collected the women’s award for the third time after another trophy-filled season with Barcelona Femení.
The ceremony took place at London’s historic Palladium Theatre, where football’s biggest names gathered despite rainy weather and traffic delays.
Kane Earns His First Ballon d’Or
Kane’s victory capped a prolific season in which the England striker scored 73 goals in 65 competitive appearances for club and country. He also helped Bayern Munich win the league and domestic cup double.
The 33-year-old received a warm reception from the London crowd as he approached the stage, with fans chanting his name during the presentation.
“It being here in London as well has made it extra special,” Kane said after accepting the award.
“Thank you very much. Thank you to everyone who voted for me. I can imagine it was really tough this year – some incredible players I was up against.”
Kane became the first Englishman to win the men’s Ballon d’Or since Michael Owen received the honor in 2001. His triumph places him among the select group of English players to have claimed football’s most prestigious individual award.
Putellas Claims a Third Women’s Ballon d’Or
Putellas continued her remarkable individual career by winning the women’s Ballon d’Or for the third time.
The Spanish midfielder played a central role in Barcelona Femení’s outstanding season, captaining the team to four trophies: the league title, two domestic cups and the Women’s Champions League.
She subsequently signed for London City Lionesses in England, bringing a new chapter to her club career after years of success with Barcelona.
Putellas acknowledged her teammates and fellow nominees during her acceptance speech.
“I don’t know what to say, too many things. Congrats to all the nominees, congrats to all the winners,” she said.
“That so many Barça players were nominated says a lot about the season we had. … It was my honor to be your captain.”
Her third victory further strengthened her status as one of the defining players of the modern women’s game.
Lamine Yamal and Vicky López Take Young Player Honors
Although Yamal missed out on the men’s main prize, the Barcelona forward won the Men’s Young Talent of the Year award for the third consecutive time.
The 19-year-old enjoyed another successful season with Barcelona and Spain, adding major team honors to a growing collection of individual recognition.
Barcelona Femení also celebrated success in the women’s young-player category, with Vicky López winning the award for the second straight year.
The results highlighted the continued influence of Barcelona’s men’s and women’s teams, whose players featured prominently throughout the ceremony.
Spain and Barcelona Dominate the Coaching Awards
Spain’s success extended beyond the playing categories. National team coach Luis de la Fuente won Men’s Coach of the Year, while Barcelona Femení manager Pere Romeu received the women’s coaching honor.
Paris Saint-Germain was named Men’s Club of the Year, and Barcelona Femení took the corresponding women’s award.
Spain’s Unai Simón and Barcelona goalkeeper Cata Coll were recognized as the best goalkeepers in their respective categories.
The awards reflected the impact of successful teams across international and club football, with Spanish representatives enjoying a particularly strong night.
Bukayo Saka Wins the Sócrates Award
Arsenal and England star Bukayo Saka received the Sócrates Award, which recognizes humanitarian work and social contributions by footballers.
The honor recognizes the role players can have beyond the pitch, using their public profiles to support communities and charitable causes.
Kane also won Men’s Striker of the Year, adding another trophy to his successful evening. Mexico international Charlyn Corral, who plays for CF Pachuca, won the women’s striker award.
Full List of Ballon d’Or Winners
| Award | Winner |
|---|---|
| Men’s Ballon d’Or | Harry Kane |
| Women’s Ballon d’Or | Alexia Putellas |
| Men’s Club of the Year | Paris Saint-Germain |
| Women’s Club of the Year | Barcelona Femení |
| Men’s Young Talent of the Year | Lamine Yamal |
| Women’s Young Talent of the Year | Vicky López |
| Men’s Coach of the Year | Luis de la Fuente |
| Women’s Coach of the Year | Pere Romeu |
| Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year | Unai Simón |
| Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year | Cata Coll |
| Sócrates Award | Bukayo Saka |
| Men’s Striker of the Year | Harry Kane |
| Women’s Striker of the Year | Charlyn Corral |
How Ballon d’Or Voting Works
The men’s and women’s Ballon d’Or winners are selected through voting by designated journalists representing their respective countries.
Each voter ranks their top 10 players, with points awarded according to each position on the ballot. The player who accumulates the highest total wins the award.
Kane’s victory and Putellas’ third triumph headlined a ceremony that celebrated individual excellence while recognizing the achievements of clubs, national teams, coaches and players making an impact beyond football.
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