How 'anti-superstar' Kane defied doubters to become world's best

What the report says

BBC Sport Football reports that Harry Kane has won the Ballon d’Or, with chief football writer Phil McNulty describing the 33-year-old as a humble “anti-superstar” who reached the top after years of doubt and setbacks. The award was presented at the London Palladium on Monday night, marking a major milestone for a player whose career has spanned Tottenham Hotspur, England and Bayern Munich.

The article says Kane’s honours and records helped his case: he is England’s leading men’s goalscorer, shares the national appearance record, and is Tottenham’s all-time top scorer. BBC Sport also notes that he scored prolifically for Bayern and England during the 2025-26 season, and that he beat other leading contenders including Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal.

McNulty frames Kane’s rise as a story of persistence. Before becoming a star, he spent loan spells at Leyton Orient, Millwall, Norwich City and Leicester City, experiences that included injuries, limited chances and self-doubt. Former coaches and pundits quoted by BBC Sport said his work ethic, professionalism and humility helped carry him to the sport’s highest individual prize.

The report says the Ballon d’Or also helps answer long-running criticism that Kane had not won enough team trophies. After moving to Bayern in 2023, he has won the Bundesliga twice, and his award makes him the first English winner since Michael Owen in 2001. BBC Sport adds that Kane remains focused on club and international football, with Bayern’s next fixtures coming later this week.