Harry Kane won the men's Ballon d'Or for 2026, capping his move to Bayern Munich with individual recognition at sport's highest level. The striker's consistency and goal output across Europe's elite competition finally earned him the award after years of contention.
Alexia Putellas claimed her third Ballon d'Or Féminin, cementing her status as the women's game's dominant force. The Barcelona midfielder's control of midfield and ability to dictate play continues to set her apart from the rest of the field.
Both winners represent different eras of dominance. Kane's recognition arrives somewhat later in his career than many expected, validating his continued impact at the world's biggest clubs. Putellas, meanwhile, has made the women's award her own, winning it more frequently than any other player in the trophy's history.