Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Kane tops 73 goals, eyes fifth English Ballon d’Or

9/8/2026

26 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

He scored 73 goals for club and country last season, exceeding Cristiano Ronaldo's 69.
A win would make Kane the fifth English Ballon d'Or winner, the first since 2001.
Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappé, Golden Boot winner with 10 World Cup goals, also vies for the award.

History

Historical Context

Michael Owen won the Ballon d'Or on 18 December 2001, becoming England’s first winner since Kevin Keegan’s 1979 triumph, ending a 22-year gap. His award followed a standout 2000-01 season with 31 Premier League goals for Liverpool. If Harry Kane secures the 2024 Ballon d'Or, it would mark England’s first winner in 23 years, echoing Owen’s breakthrough.

1 of 2

Story summary

He scored 73 goals for club and country last season, exceeding Cristiano Ronaldo's 69.
A win would make Kane the fifth English Ballon d'Or winner, the first since 2001.
Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappé, Golden Boot winner with 10 World Cup goals, also vies for the award.

1 / 2