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Downing Street has hinted that Harry Kane could be in the running for a knighthood as the England striker was congratulated by the prime minister for the “extraordinary achievement” of winning the Ballon d’Or.
The England captain and Bayern Munich player secured the most prestigious individual prize in world football on Monday night, becoming the first Englishman in 25 years to win the award.
Asked if the prime minister wanted to congratulate Harry Kane on his triumph, a No 10 spokesperson said: “To be the first Englishman to win it in 25 years is an extraordinary achievement, and what a moment to do it here at home.
“Seventy years after Sir Stanley Matthews won the inaugural award, it caps a remarkable season, and Harry continues to set a brilliant example to young players across the country, and the PM knows the whole nation will be incredibly proud of him.
“And hopefully, there’s another trophy to celebrate with England before too long.”
Asked whether a knighthood could be on the cards for Kane, she said: “On your question about a knighthood, I think everyone would agree: Harry Kane has given an enormous amount to English football, and this is a very special moment for him in the country, but as ever, I’m not going to pre-empt the honours process.”
Kane was met with enormous cheers during a ceremony at London Palladium when the former Brazil forward Ronaldo read out the name of England’s captain.
Following in the footsteps of Stanley Matthews, Bobby Charlton, Kevin Keegan and Michael Owen in winning the award, Kane said he would aim to retain the trophy in 12 months’ time.
“My heart was beating fast and I was just hoping he would say my name. I mean, what a legend, Ronaldo was one of my idols growing up, so for him to be the one to present me the award, it’s a dream come true,” Kane said.
“Honestly, just so many amazing feelings and to share these moments with my friends and with my family who are here. Yeah, I would say it’s a dream come true, but it’s beyond my wildest dreams.”
A stunning 2025-26 campaign in which he scored 73 goals for club and country, won two trophies with Bayern Munich and led England to third place at the World Cup helped the 33-year-old beat Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal to the prestigious award.
An emotional Kane spoke for more than 10 minutes on stage after receiving the award, before thanking his wife, Katie Goodland.
“To my wife, Kate, my best friend,” Kane said. “We’ve been through ups and downs for sure. You’re my biggest supporter. I actually felt like you wanted this more than me myself.”
He added: “This is a trophy that we celebrate, not me. This is me and you, it’s all the family, all our close-knit team, so I just want to say thank you, I love you.”
The England manager Thomas Tuchel was among those to congratulate Kane on his award.
He said: “I ran out of superlatives to describe your performances a long time ago, but I’m delighted to see that you have been formally recognised by the football world.
“To become the first Englishman to win this huge honour in 25 years makes it extra special, and we are lucky to have you as our leader. I know you will enjoy this moment with your loved ones and then get back to doing what you do best – scoring goals and winning football matches.”
London City Lionesses and Spain midfielder Alexia Putellas, who won the women’s Ballon d’Or award for a record-equalling third time, said: “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.”
