Harry Kane and Alexia Putellas both claimed football's highest individual honours after winning this year’s Ballon d'Or.
The awards, at the UK’s London Palladium, which represent the culmination of remarkable on-field achievements for both, saw the Bayern Munich and England striker becoming the first Englishman to win the prestigious award since Michael Owen in 2001. For Spain midfielder, Alexia Putellas, she won the Ballon d'Or Feminin for a third time.
After a record-breaking season that cemented his status as one of the game's greatest goalscorers, former Tottenham Hotspur’ hero, Kane said: "I am almost speechless.
“Thank you to everyone who voted for me. I can only imagine that it was tough this year, especially with the world-class players here tonight.
“Congratulations to all the winners and nominees, who show that determination and hard work can really achieve." The England captain was prolific last season, scoring 61 goals in 51 games for Bayern across all competitions, as the German side completed a domestic league and cup double.
Kane was Europe's leading goalscorer, netted six goals at the World Cup and captained England to the semi-finals, combining his clinical finishing with the leadership and composure that have defined his international career. For London City Lionesses' Alexia Putellas, she said: "For any young boy or girl wanting to achieve their dreams, anything is possible.
“I wasn't the kid who went straight to the top. I had to experience the downs. I had to find my way to be the very best right now."
"It doesn’t matter whether you’re a boy or a girl, or where you come from." The competition for this year's award was fierce, as Kylian Mbappe broke World Cup scoring records and Lamine Yamal helped Spain to World Cup glory.
Spain and Barcelona players won the young talent awards, with Lamine picking up his third trophy and Vicky Lopez taking home the women's award for the second successive year.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente was named men's coach of the year, while Barcelona's Pere Romeu won the women's coaching award.
The men's goalkeeper award went to Unai Simon of Spain and Athletic Bilbao, while Cata Coll of Spain and Barcelona took the women's award. Paris St Germain won the men's club of the year award, while Barcelona picked up the women's honours.
Kane won the men's striker of the year prize and Charlyn Corral was named top women's striker.
