Rodri beats Messi to Golden Ball as Mbappé wins Golden Boot at FIFA World Cup 2026
Spain dominate individual honours after historic World Cup triumph in New Jersey
NEW JERSEY – Spain's FIFA World Cup 2026 triumph was capped by a clean sweep of the tournament's biggest individual honours, with midfield maestro Rodri beating Lionel Messi to the prestigious Golden Ball while France captain Kylian Mbappé claimed the Golden Boot as the competition's top scorer.
Hours after Spain edged Argentina 1-0 in the final at New York New Jersey Stadium to lift their second World Cup title, FIFA announced the winners of its individual awards. Rodri emerged as the standout performer of the tournament, while Mbappé's remarkable goalscoring exploits earned him another Golden Boot despite France falling short of the final.
Golden Ball
Rodri was named the tournament's best player after orchestrating Spain's march to the world title with a series of commanding displays in midfield. The Manchester City star dictated the tempo of matches with his composure, passing accuracy and tactical intelligence, providing the platform for Spain's possession-based style throughout the competition.
His influence was evident from the group stage through to the final, where Spain shut out defending champions Argentina in a disciplined performance. Rodri's consistency ultimately saw him edge Argentina captain Lionel Messi in the race for the Golden Ball.
The award adds another major honour to an already glittering career. Rodri has now completed one of football's most remarkable collections of silverware, having won the FIFA World Cup, UEFA European Championship, UEFA Champions League, Ballon d'Or and multiple Premier League titles with Manchester City.
The Golden Ball victory further cements his reputation as one of the finest midfielders of his generation.
Golden Boot
While Spain celebrated World Cup glory, Kylian Mbappé walked away with the Golden Boot after finishing as the tournament's leading scorer with 10 goals.
The France captain once again demonstrated why he is regarded as one of the world's deadliest forwards, scoring consistently throughout the tournament and helping Les Bleus secure third place after defeating England 6-4 in a thrilling third-place playoff.
Although France fell short of reaching the final, Mbappé's clinical finishing ensured he finished comfortably at the top of the scoring charts. His tally made him the first player to win the World Cup Golden Boot in consecutive editions, having also finished as the leading scorer in the previous tournament.
Spain vs Argentina
Spain's dominance extended beyond the Golden Ball.
Nineteen-year-old Barcelona defender Pau Cubarsí was named the Best Young Player after an exceptional breakthrough tournament. The teenager displayed maturity beyond his years, producing composed defensive performances against some of the world's strongest attacks and establishing himself as one of football's brightest young talents.
Goalkeeper Unai Simón completed Spain's haul by winning the Golden Glove. The Athletic Club shot stopper was outstanding throughout the tournament, producing a string of crucial saves while organising a defence that proved nearly impenetrable.
Spain kept seven clean sheets during the tournament, including another composed display in the final as Argentina failed to register a shot on target during normal time. The Spanish defence conceded only 10 shots on target throughout the competition, highlighting the team's defensive dominance.
The FIFA Fair Play Award went to the Netherlands in recognition of their discipline and sporting conduct throughout the tournament.
World Cup 2026 individual award winners
- Golden Ball: Rodri (Spain)
- Golden Boot: Kylian Mbappé (France) – 10 goals
- Golden Glove: Unai Simón (Spain)
- Best Young Player: Pau Cubarsí (Spain)
- FIFA Fair Play Award: Netherlands