Harry Kane has been crowned the Ballon d’Or winner, becoming the first Englishman in 25 years to claim football’s most prestigious individual award.

The Bayern Munich striker beat Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal and France captain Kylian Mbappé to the men’s prize at Monday’s ceremony, capping a remarkable season for club and country.

Kane enjoyed an outstanding campaign, scoring 73 goals in 65 appearances for club and country as Bayern Munich secured a domestic league and cup double.

The England international also found the net six times at the World Cup, where England finished third, further strengthening his case for the coveted individual accolade.

The 33-year-old’s achievement makes him the first Englishman to win the Ballon d’Or since Michael Owen in 2001, ending a 25-year wait for England to have another recipient.

Since joining Bayern Munich in 2023, Kane has maintained remarkable goalscoring consistency, establishing himself as one of the leading forwards in world football.

Mbappé finished second in the voting, extending his wait for the award despite finishing as the leading scorer in the World Cup, Champions League and La Liga. However, his individual achievements were not enough to secure the top prize.

Meanwhile, Alexia Putellas claimed the women’s Ballon d’Or for a third time, adding to her previous triumphs and continuing Spain’s strong presence in the women’s game.

Putellas was recognised for her contribution to Barcelona’s Champions League success last season before her move to London City Lionesses.

In the coaching categories, Spain coach Luis de la Fuente was named men’s coach of the year, ahead of Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique and Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta.

Barcelona’s Pere Romeu claimed the women’s coach of the year award.

Paris Saint-Germain, despite winning a second consecutive Champions League title, missed out on the major individual awards but received the men’s club of the year honour.

The ceremony celebrated another memorable season in world football, with Kane’s triumph marking a significant milestone for English football and Putellas adding another chapter to her decorated career.

Never miss a major story. Get breaking news and the latest developments from South Africa and beyond as they happen.

More in Sport