Harry Kane open to knighthood after historic Ballon d’Or win

Harry Kane says he would be “incredibly proud” to receive a knighthood after becoming the first Englishman in 25 years to win the Ballon d’Or.

The Bayern Munich and England striker was named the 2026 Ballon d’Or winner at Monday’s awards ceremony in London, joining an exclusive group of English winners after overcoming competition from Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal.

Kane is the fifth Englishman to win the prestigious individual award and the first since Michael Owen in 2001.

The 33-year-old has been the Bundesliga’s leading scorer in each of his three full seasons in Germany. During the 2025-26 campaign, he scored 36 goals in 31 matches.

He was an unused substitute several days after receiving the award as Bayern Munich defeated 1. FC Magdeburg 6-1. After the match, Kane was asked about the possibility of being knighted.

“I certainly wouldn't say no - I really appreciate it,” he said. “If it came to that, it would be incredible and something I'd be incredibly proud of. But I don't want to get too carried away with it right now.”

Asked how “Sir Harry Kane” sounded, he replied: “It sounds good, but it would feel kind of strange if everyone called me Sir. So for now, I'll just stick with Harry.”

Kane would join Sir Stanley Matthews and Sir Bobby Charlton as British Ballon d’Or winners to have received a knighthood. Both former players were given the honour more than 50 years ago.

Kane already holds an MBE, while Downing Street has declined to rule out the possibility of a future knighthood following his Ballon d’Or success.

A No 10 spokeswoman congratulated Kane on his achievement and highlighted the significance of him winning the award in London.

“The PM would like to congratulate Harry Kane on winning the Ballon d’Or,” she 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.”