First English winner in 25 years: Kane thanks wife Katie for support

Harry Kane made history on Monday night as the first Englishman to win the Ballon d'Or in 25 years, according to the Daily Mail ^[1]. The England captain, 33, beat off stiff competition from Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappe to scoop the coveted honour at the London Palladium.

In an emotional speech, Kane paid tribute to his wife, Katie, stating she had "sacrificed herself to help him achieve his dreams" ^[1]. He told the audience that she was his biggest supporter and that he felt she wanted the award more than he did. The couple, both from Walthamstow, have been married since 2019 and share four children: Ivy, Vivienne, Louis, and Henry.

Following the ceremony, the couple headed to the swanky Cirque Le Soir club in Soho for an exclusive after-party ^[1]. Katie wore an elegant black gown, while Kane sported a sharp tuxedo, accessorised with a £1million Rolex watch. Despite the celebratory atmosphere, with sparkler-filled champagne bottles circulating the dance floor, Kane remained professional. Sources note he went easy on the alcohol as he was due back in training with Bayern Munich on Tuesday.

Kane also thanked his parents for their years of support, recalling how they took him to training and watched him play no matter the location ^[1]. He dedicated the win to his children, admitting they were past their bedtime watching the late ceremony. "You're the reason I do this," he told his four kids.

The win marks a significant milestone for Kane, who scored 73 goals en route to winning the double with Bayern Munich and guiding England to a third-place World Cup finish. His achievement also drew praise from Prince William, who posted on Instagram that the award was "so deserved" ^[1]. Kane described the moment as extra special because it occurred in London, calling the city a "good omen" for the evening.