Ballon d'Or: Harry Kane Reveals Why Virat Kohli's Congratulatory Message Meant So Much

Harry Kane has revealed how much he appreciated the congratulatory messages he received after winning the prestigious 2026 Ballon d’Or, with Indian cricket superstar Virat Kohli among the sporting icons who reached out to him. The England captain also mentioned David Beckham, Tom Brady and his close friend Ed Sheeran while reflecting on the overwhelming response to his career-defining achievement.

Harry Kane Mentions Virat Kohli During Press Conference

Speaking at a press conference ahead of Bayern Munich’s UEFA Champions League fixture against Atlético Madrid, Kane was asked whether any congratulatory message had particularly surprised him.

The Bayern Munich striker named several renowned personalities whose messages meant a great deal to him.

“People like David Beckham, who was a big idol of mine, Tom Brady, Virat Kohli, a lot of sportspeople I really admire. A good friend of mine, Ed Sheeran, who's at the top in the music industry, too. I had many, many messages, all of which I was extremely grateful for,” Kane said.

The England captain also admitted that he had underestimated the number of people who wanted to see him win football’s most prestigious individual award.

Kane Says Outpouring of Support Was Overwhelming

Kane explained that while he naturally expected his family and friends to celebrate his success, the response from people outside his immediate circle was particularly meaningful.

He revealed that messages arrived through social media and even from people who did not previously have his phone number.

The footballer said the overwhelming support made him realise how significant the achievement was and how many people were genuinely happy for him.

Virat Kohli Praises Harry Kane’s Hard Work and Integrity

Virat Kohli congratulated Kane on October 27, a day after the England striker won the Ballon d’Or.

In his message on X, the former India captain praised Kane’s resilience, dedication and integrity throughout his career.

Kohli wrote:

“Harry, my friend, you deserve every bit of this award for your resilience, hard work and honesty with which you've carried yourself through all these years playing football at the top. Really happy for you. God bless you and your family. They must all be very proud of you, as you would be of your own journey. My best wishes always. Congratulations.”

The heartfelt message also received attention from Bayern Munich, whose official account responded to Kohli with the words, “From one legend to another.”

Harry Kane Becomes Fifth English Ballon d’Or Winner.

Harry Kane made history by becoming the fifth English footballer to win the Ballon d’Or.

Before Kane, the award had been won by Stanley Matthews in 1956, Bobby Charlton in 1966, Kevin Keegan in 1978 and 1979, and Michael Owen in 2001.

Kane’s exceptional performances during the 2025-26 season played a significant role in his achievement. He scored 73 goals for club and country, including 61 for Bayern Munich and 12 for England.

He also helped Bayern Munich win the Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal and Franz Beckenbauer Supercup, while England secured third place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Ballon d’Or victory marks another major milestone in Kane’s career and highlights the widespread admiration he enjoys across the sporting world.

Virat Kohli’s congratulatory message, alongside wishes from other celebrated personalities, added another memorable moment to the England captain’s historic achievement.