India, Oct. 27 -- Former India captain Virat Kohli congratulated Harry Kane on his Ballon d'Or triumph on Tuesday. The England forward became the fifth Englishman to win football's most prestigious individual honour and the first since Michael Owen in 2001.

Kane topped the voting ahead of Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal, who won the men's young talent award for the third consecutive year. Rodri, the 2024 winner, finished fourth, followed by record eight-time winner Lionel Messi.

Addressing Kane as his friend, Kohli praised the striker's resilience, hard work and honesty throughout his career at the highest level, saying he deserved the recognition. The Indian cricketer also extended his best wishes to Kane and his family.

"Harry, my fri...