Who Said What: Franck Ribery, Son Heung-min and the football world react after Harry Kane wins Ballon d’Or

Harry Kane won the 2026 Ballon d'Or at a gala in London on Monday, finishing ahead of Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal. The Bayern Munich striker became the fifth Englishman to claim the prestigious honor and the first since Michael Owen in 2001. Kane expressed his gratitude to his supporters and voiced hope that his career journey would inspire young athletes.

Tributes poured in across football, with Franck Ribery praising Kane's dedication, while former Tottenham teammate Son Heung-min and England colleague Jude Bellingham both hailed him as the 'GOAT'. Other public figures, including former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Steven Gerrard, and Rio Ferdinand, also extended congratulations to Kane, who was additionally named men's striker of the year.