World Cup Awards: Messi Misses Golden Ball, Rodri Triumphs
Following Spain's World Cup victory, the individual awards were distributed with Rodri unexpectedly winning the Golden Ball over Lionel Messi, while Kylian Mbappe took the Golden Boot.
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After Spain's extra-time win over Argentina (1-0) in the World Cup final, the tournament's individual awards were announced. Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon was named best goalkeeper, having conceded only one goal throughout the tournament, with opponents managing just 11 shots on target.
The Golden Ball for the best player was surprisingly awarded to Spain's defensive anchor Rodri, despite Lionel Messi being considered the main favorite. Messi finished second, while France captain Kylian Mbappe placed third.
Mbappe also won the Golden Boot as the top scorer with 10 goals, followed by Messi with eight and England midfielder Jude Bellingham with seven.
With 22 goals, Mbappe became the all-time top scorer in World Cup history, surpassing Messi's 21. The Best Young Player award for the 2026 World Cup went to 19-year-old Spain defender Pau Cubarsi.
