Harry Kane’s Ballon d’Or triumph continues to earn praise from across the football world, and former United States international Brad Friedel is the latest to celebrate the Bayern Munich striker’s achievement.

Friedel believes Kane was absolutely deserving of the award, although he acknowledged that Lamine Yamal and Rodri were also worthy candidates. Ultimately, the sheer volume of goals Kane produced made his case difficult to overlook.

Friedel also touched on something particularly interesting: winning the Ballon d’Or requires more than simply being an outstanding footballer. It means convincing people across different countries and football cultures that you are the best in the world.

”I think that I would have [voted for Kane]. I think that the three best in my mind were him, Lamine (Yamal) and Rodri. I think Lamine and Rodri, especially Rodri in World Cup and what he’s done on both fronts has been remarkable,” Friedel told Gambulls. “But I think for the amount of goals that H scored, it’s truly remarkable. So, I wouldn’t have argued or complained if any of them won, but I’m really happy that Harry won.

“Winning a Ballon d’Or, I don’t think you ever think [it was clear Kane would reach this level]. Maybe if you were around Messi or Maradona in the early days, maybe not even Ronaldo. And I was with Michael Owen when he was really young as well. And he won, so you never, you never fully know, they’re going to be that good.

“But winning a Ballon d’Or, that’s something different, because you’ve got to want a lot of different nations to think you’re great also. So you never, never know. But as far as a human being? Top, one of the best. Absolutely. One of the greatest strikers of the ball that I’ve been around for sure. And I’m really happy for him, just as a human element that he wanted it.”

That final sentiment might be the most meaningful part of Friedel’s assessment. Beyond the goals, records, and individual accolades, he praised Kane’s character and the determination that drove him toward the biggest individual honor in football.

Kane has spent years being one of the most prolific strikers in the world, but now he has the Ballon d’Or to show for it. And judging by the reaction from former players, the recognition was a long time coming.