England captain
During a recent media interaction, the 2026 Ballon d'Or winner was asked if any specific messages left him feeling starstruck. Kane highlighted a select group of high-profile figures, noting that messages from David Beckham, Tom Brady, and Indian cricket star
A Mutual Respect Between Global Sporting Icons
Kane’s recognition of Kohli underscores a long-standing mutual respect between the two athletes. The pair first met in London in May 2019, an encounter that helped foster an ongoing admiration for each other's professional achievements. For Kane, receiving a note from the Indian batter was not merely a routine gesture but a highlight from someone he genuinely looks up to.
The Bayern Munich forward enjoyed a prolific 2025-26 campaign, netting 73 goals across all competitions to claim the Ballon d'Or. In a tightly contested vote, Kane finished with 1,055 points, narrowly edging out Kylian Mbappé, who recorded 1,027 points, with Lamine Yamal also featuring among the top contenders. Kane’s victory marks the first time an English footballer has received the award in 25 years.
Kohli’s Growing Influence Across International Sport
The inclusion of Kohli in Kane’s list of admirers highlights the cricketer’s reach beyond the sport of cricket. Widely considered one of the greatest batters of his generation, Kohli has frequently been recognized by international sporting personalities for his influence and ability to perform under pressure. His career is punctuated by iconic innings, such as his unbeaten 82 off 51 balls against Australia during the 2016 T20 World Cup, which remains a benchmark for high-stakes performances.
This is not the first time Kohli’s global appeal has been noted by other elite athletes. American football legend Tom Brady has previously spoken about the Indian cricketer’s impact, further cementing Kohli's status as a figure respected by peers across the global sporting landscape. For Kane, the support from such a diverse group of legends served as a memorable validation of his historic season.
