Harry Kane became the first Englishman to win the Ballon d’Or award in 25 years following a stellar season for Bayern Munich and England
Harry Kane became the first Englishman to win the prestigious Ballon d’Or award in a quarter of a century last night, but fans couldn’t stop talking about his actions hours before the ceremony took place. The England captain and Bayern Munich ace, 33, enjoyed the best season of his career to date, scoring a huge 61 times and helping the team claim another Bundesliga title and German Cup.
Kane continued that form for England and the World Cup as he scored six goals for the Three Lions as they finished third under Thomas Tuchel. His performances were enough to see him become the first Englishman since Michael Owen in 2001 to claim the Ballon d’Or award, as well as the bragging rights of Striker of the Year.
How did Harry Kane show his true personality at the Ballon d’Or awards?
But despite fans being over the moon for the Englishman, they couldn’t stop talking about Kane showing his true personality on the red carpet just hours before the ceremony began.
Footage of the striker arriving at the event with his wife, Katie Goodland, has surfaced on social media, showing Kane walking hand in hand with his childhood sweetheart, before he stopped to greet some fans.
As he greeted fans he even stopped for signatures and short chats with adoring fans. One person said: “Unlike so many football players Harry Kane was happy to provide his autograph. That demonstrates what a nice guy he is.”
A second said: “He even stopped to autograph he’s definitely [100 emoji] the winner he’s the best.” A third added: “A true gentleman.”
A fourth said: “What a fantastic role model for young people. Not seen falling out the clubs drunk, family man and just a wholesome man. Well deserved.”
Speaking after claiming his award, Kane said: “I am almost speechless. Being here in London has made it extra special. Made it a good omen for me tonight. Thank you to everyone who voted for me. I can imagine it was tough this year.
“Some world-class players in the room tonight. Congratulations to all the winners and nominees tonight and impressive showing determination and hard work can really achieve.”
He added: “Without you guys [Bayern Munich team-mates] and the rest of the team it wouldn’t be possible, the way you guys push me, the way we compete. So thank you very much. To Vinny [Vincent Kompany]. I know he is at home or still in the hospital. Wishing you well. I hope this gave you a bit of energy. To all the staff we way train and the way you push us it is a credit to yourself.
“Since I have been with you I have improved as player, improved as a person and a leader. Thanks to your leadership. An honour to play for Bayern Munich. To represent you is a real privilege. Glad to be bringing this trophy back to Bayern Munich.
“To my England team-mates, again the same. We had a special year. It wasn’t the perfect year, but we had a load of great moments. We built a great bond together. The togetherness in the hotel in the World Cup. An honour to captain you and lead you.
“It makes me extremely proud. This one is for all of us for sure. Thomas Tuchel and the staff at England, again the leadership the way you drive us, the way you push standards is something to be admired.”
How did Harry Kane celebrate his Ballon d’Or win?
After his historic moment Kane headed to Cirque Le Soir in Soho to party with family and friends. The Bayern star was greeted by a crowd full of champagne sparklers, and raised his shot glass in appreciation.
His wife, Kate, and brother, Charlie, were with him at the Ballon d’Or ceremony and were by his side as the night went on as they partied on. Kane had security alongside him when he eventually left the shindig in the early hours of the morning.
A host of Kane’s former Tottenham teammates also showed up to celebrate his historic moment. The likes of Eric Dier, Ben Davies and Matt Doherty could be seen on the dancefloor at the club.
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