England captain Harry Kane was among the favourites for the Ballon d'Or ahead of Monday evening's glitzy ceremony in London and he finally claimed the award

Harry Kane has become the first English player to win the Ballon d'Or in 25 years after being crowned the world's best footballer.

Kane, 33, was among the favourites to claim the gong for the first time in his career following a sensational season with Bayern Munich. He scored 61 goals in 51 outings for the German side last term, helping them to yet another Bundesliga crown, as well as a German cup.

Kane continued that form for England and the World Cup as he scored six goals for the Three Lions as they finished third under Thomas Tuchel.

And that form was enough to see him become the first Englishman since Michael Owen in 2001 to claim the award, as well as the Striker of the Year gong.

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Speaking after claiming his award, Kane said: "I am almost speechless. Being here in London has made it extra special. Made it a good omen for me tonight. Thank you to everyone who voted for me. I can imagine it was tough this year.

"Some world-class players in the room tonight. Congratulations to all the winners and nominees tonight and impressive showing determination and hard work can really achieve."

He added: "Without you guys [Bayern Munich team-mates] and the rest of the team it wouldn't be possible, the way you guys push me, the way we compete. So thank you very much. To Vinny [Vincent Kompany]. I know he is at home or still in the hospital. Wishing you well. I hope this gave you a bit of energy. To all the staff we way train and the way you push us it is a credit to yourself.

"Since I have been with you I have improved as player, improved as a person and a leader. Thanks to your leadership. An honour to play for Bayern Munich. To represent you is a real privilege. Glad to be bringing this trophy back to Bayern Munich.

"To my England team-mates, again the same. We had a special year. It wasn't the perfect year, but we had a load of great moments. We built a great bond together. The togetherness in the hotel in the World Cup. An honour to captain you and lead you. It makes me extremely proud. This one is for all of us for sure. Thomas Tuchel and the staff at England, again the leadership the way you drive us, the way you push standards is something to be admired."

Kane had faced serious competition for the award from Barcelona's Lamine Yamal. The teenager scored 24 goals and notched 18 assists for the Spanish giants last term, while he also shone for the Spanish national team as they secured their second World Cup crown in the USA.

Elsewhere, Kane's England colleague Jude Bellingham ended up finishing outside of the top ten in 11th place following another standout year for both Real Madrid and England. Declan Rice in the meantime only accumulated enough votes to finish 15th.