Harry Kane has revealed that Virat Kohli was among the sporting greats whose congratulatory messages meant the most to him after winning the 2026 Ballon d'Or. The Bayern Munich striker named the Indian cricket star alongside David Beckham and NFL legend Tom Brady when asked which messages had left him starstruck.

Kane's response highlighted the mutual respect between two athletes who have built remarkable careers in different sports. The England captain's Ballon d'Or triumph also drew attention to his long-standing admiration for Kohli, whose influence extends well beyond cricket.

Harry Kane's Special Mention of Virat Kohli

Speaking after receiving football's most prestigious individual award, Kane was asked whether any congratulatory messages had particularly impressed him. “People like David Beckham, who is a big idol of mine. Tom Brady, Virat Kohli, you know… a lot of sports people I really admire and look up to,” Kane said.

The mention placed Kohli among a select group of athletes Kane considers sporting inspirations. Beckham, a former England captain and global football icon, and Brady, widely regarded as one of American football's greatest players, were also singled out.

Kane's comments quickly drew attention from Indian sports fans, particularly because Kohli had publicly congratulated him following the Ballon d'Or announcement.

What Did Virat Kohli Say to Harry Kane?

Kohli shared a message celebrating Kane's achievement, praising the striker's resilience, hard work and honesty throughout his career. The Indian cricketer described Kane as a friend and extended his wishes to the footballer's family, making the message more personal than a routine congratulatory post.

The exchange reflects a connection that has developed over several years. Both athletes have spoken about their admiration for each other's careers, despite competing in different sporting disciplines.

How Did Virat Kohli and Harry Kane Become Friends?

Their public connection dates back to 2016, when Kohli produced a memorable unbeaten 82 off 51 balls against Australia in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup. Kane subsequently expressed admiration for the Indian batter's performance and approach to the game. The two later met in London in May 2019, further strengthening their cross-sport association.

Kane's latest comments have brought that relationship back into focus, with the footballer acknowledging Kohli alongside other sporting figures he looks up to.

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Harry Kane's Historic Ballon d'Or Achievement

Kane's 2026 Ballon d'Or win marked a major milestone in his career. The Bayern Munich forward became the first English footballer in 25 years to claim the men's award, following an exceptional season for club and country. His achievement added another landmark to a career defined by goalscoring records, leadership and consistent performances at the highest level.

For Kane, the recognition from fellow athletes appears to have been an important part of the celebrations. His mention of Kohli also underlined how sporting excellence can create admiration across borders and disciplines.

The exchange between Kane and Kohli offers a reminder that the influence of elite athletes often reaches beyond their own sport, connecting stars through shared ambition, discipline and respect.