Harry Kane has once again made history, becoming the first Englishman to win the coveted Ballon d'Or in 25 years - and as he took to the stage, his speech proved an emotional tribute to his wife, Katie Goodland.
The England captain and Bayern Munich striker beat the likes of Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal to secure the Ballon d'Or prize at last night's ceremony. Taking to the stage at the London Palladium, Kane took his time in the spotlight to thank those who had helped him achieve everything that had led him to winning the prestigious football award - namely his wife, Kate.
Kane shared, 'To my wife, Kate, my best friend. We've been through ups and downs for sure. You're my biggest supporter. I actually felt like you wanted this more than me myself. The anxious wait for us to find out, I know it's been horrible for you, [but] here it is - we've done it!'
The footballer continued, 'You always want the best for me, you sacrifice yourself to help me achieve my dreams, and I know they're your dreams as well, so it wouldn't be possible without you. This is a trophy that we celebrate, not me. This is me and you, it's all the family, all our close-knit team, so I just want to say thank you, I love you. Can't wait to enjoy this and celebrate tonight for sure. Love you.'
Elsewhere in his speech, Kane took the time to thank his wide family - including his older brother Charlie and his mum and dad, who were all in attendance at Monday night's ceremony. There were also those he paid tribute to who were not sat in the audience: his and Katie's four children.
'My kids sat home watching, it's definitely past your bedtime,' Kane joked, 'especially as we're a little later than we hoped. So to Ivy, Vivienne, Louis and Henry, you're the reason I do this.'
'I don't think you'll fully maybe appreciate bringing this trophy home. I'll bring a few others home, but this one is a special one, so I can't wait to see you and celebrate with you. I want to set a good example being a father but also being a professional and what it means to work hard, what it means to believe in yourself. I love you very much.'
Who is Katie Goodland? Where does she do? And how did she meet Harry Kane? Here’s what we know about the England WAG.
Who is Katie Goodland, and how old is she?
Kate Jane Goodland, now known as Katie Kane, was born on 21 January 1993. She’s currently 33 years old, and an innovative and independent Aquarius! While she’s originally from Chingford, East London, she now lives in Munich, Germany (where Harry currently plays football for Bayern Munich.)
What does Katie Goodland do? Her career explained
Katie attended Chingford Foundation School (the very same school Harry Kane went to) before heading off to Middlesex University to study Sports Science. After graduating in 2014, she launched her own career as a fitness coach and personal trainer. Her strong work ethic was something Harry spoke about while talking to the Evening Standard, saying, ‘[Katie] always wanted to do her own thing. She went to university and worked hard.’
How did Harry Kane and Katie Goodland meet?
Harry and Katie first crossed paths when they were just four years old, having both attended Larkswood Primary School in Chingford.
The pair lived just streets away from each other, and initially grew up as friends. In one picture taken in 2005 when they were around 11 years old, both Katie and Harry are seen standing beside David Beckham at the launch of his football academy in Greenwich.
While they were in and out of each other’s lives in their early years, it wasn’t until 2011 that things turned romantic. Harry and Katie began dating at 16 - and six years later, Harry proposed to Katie while they were on holiday in the Bahamas with their newborn daughter.
When did Harry Kane and Katie Goodland get married?
After getting engaged in 2017, Harry and Katie went on to tie the knot in the summer of 2019. Sharing a snap of their wedding day on Instagram, Harry wrote at the time, ‘Finally got married to my best friend! I love you.’
How many children do Harry Kane and Katie Goodland have?
The couple share four children together: daughters Ivy Jane, nine, and Vivienne Jane, eight, and sons Louis Harry, five, and Henry Edward, three.
Despite Harry being one of England’s strongest strikers, he chooses to keep his family largely away from the spotlight - although they are always seen supporting him during his matches.
Does Katie Goodland have social media?
She does! You can find her on Instagram @katekanex, where she shares everything from workout content to family life.
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Charlotte Roberts is a writer at Grazia UK, specialising in SEO. She spends her days covering everything celebrity, culture, and entertainment - from film review roundups to cast explainers.