Thierry Henry Addresses Backlash Over Ballon d’Or Ceremony Jokes, Calls Critics “Excited About Nothing”

Thierry Henry has defended his hosting of Monday’s Ballon d’Or ceremony following criticism of his interactions with several guests on stage.

Speaking out via social media, the former France and Arsenal forward said he was responding to what he described as “people getting really excited about nothing.”

Henry, who co-hosted the event alongside CBS Sports presenter Kate Scott, faced scrutiny over his comments directed at Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal, overall winner Harry Kane, and Scott herself.

During the ceremony, Henry playfully teased Yamal about claiming his third consecutive Young Player of the Year award, asking: “It’s your third one, right? But is it the one you really wanted to win?” The remark drew visible reactions from the audience.

In a video posted online, Henry clarified his stance: “I’m a big fan of Lamine Yamal. I wasn’t checking his ego at all – that you didn’t like the joke, I can understand. But don’t do that, he’s one of the players I’d pay to watch, I love him.”

The 49-year-old also addressed criticism regarding his correction of Scott’s pronunciation of legendary Brazilian footballer Socrates’ name, insisting it was all in good humor.

“You didn’t like the joke, I understand, but please stop saying I disrespected Kate,” Henry said. “I will never do that and you can ask her, she was on the joke with me. She did Soc on purpose, and I said Soc, so please stop inventing stories.”

Bukayo Saka was honored with the Socrates Award for his humanitarian and charitable efforts.

Additionally, Henry expressed his support for Kylian Mbappe in the lead-up to the main award announcement but still praised Kane as a deserving recipient.

“I’m French and I was always going to back up and support my fellow countryman,” he explained.

“I told Harry, ‘You’re a worthy winner, you deserve it. You’re the example that work ethic is a talent, working hard is a talent.’ Well done, Harry Kane – and I call him Sir Harry Kane since the World Cup.”

“So please, people out there, relax. I love Harry Kane, I love Lamine Yamal, and I didn’t disrespect Kate. She was on the joke with me.”

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