England’s Harry Kane wins Ballon d’Or, Alexia Putellas takes women’s award

Spanish midfielder Alexia Putellas has won the Ballon d'Or Feminin for the third time, tying a record in the process. The 32-year-old, who captained Barcelona to a Champions League title in the 2025-26 season, is now part of the Women's Super League side London City Lionesses. This victory follows another year where she won the award, extending Spanish dominance over the prize.

She is now in a league of her own with fellow Spaniard Aitana Bonmati, who also has three Ballon d'Or Feminin crowns. In the previous six Ballon d'Or wins, the Spanish duo were the only players from outside Norway and the United States to claim the accolade. Putellas' recent triumph marks a triumphant return to the world stage after recovering from a career-threatening ACL injury in 2022.

Her outstanding performances last season, where she scored 21 goals and provided 13 assists, put her among the best players in Europe's top leagues. Known as "La Reina" or "The Queen," Putellas scored crucial goals and created chances, contributing significantly to Barcelona's success. Despite leaving Barcelona for the Women's Super League in July, Putellas remains a force to be reckoned with, demonstrating her continued excellence in women's football.