‘It will change the way people see me and value my career’ – Harry Kane on the impact of winning the Ballon d’Or

‘It will change the way people see me and value my career’ – Harry Kane on the impact of winning the Ballon d’OrLong mocked for a trophy cabinet that had remained empty for years, Harry Kane (33) finally broke his own curse by winning the Bundesliga and the German Super Cup with Bayern Munich in 2025. Two accolades to which were added last season a domestic treble (Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal, German Super Cup) and the setting of some truly impressive statistical records, notably including the 73 goals scored by the Englishman in 65 matches.An exceptional campaign, recognised last Monday at the Ballon d’Or ceremony, which Kane went on to win for the first time in his career. An achievement which, in his view, will help change the way some observers may still perceive him. And this “particularly in the way the world looks at me and views my career”, he explained in an interview with France Football.“We live in an age where this sort of accolade matters to people and influences their perception of a player’s calibre. No one will ever be able to take that moment or this season away from me. I think winning trophies like this helps you earn the respect of others and the fans. That’s for sure.”Whilst he is aware that his status has now changed, Kane, however, “doesn’t believe it changes my mindset.” At 33, the Englishman wants to “always go further”. “What else can I achieve? Can I win two Ballon d’Ors in a row?” he wonders. “That’s always how I’ve operated.”And whilst he may not reveal any more in his reply, it’s a safe bet that bringing England back to the top of world football must be at the back of his mind. He won’t have many more opportunities to achieve this, but his ambition will always remain the same.GFFN | Léo Aschi