The curtain came down on another memorable FIFA World Cup as football’s biggest stars were recognized for their outstanding performances throughout the 2026 tournament.
Fresh off leading Spain to their second FIFA World Cup title with a 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina in the final, midfielder Rodri was named the tournament’s best player, while Kylian Mbappé finished as the leading goalscorer. Lionel Messi, despite Argentina’s heartbreaking defeat in the final, was once again among the competition’s standout performers, earning both the Silver Ball and Silver Boot.
Here is a closer look at the major individual and team awards from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Rodri Wins Golden Ball as Tournament’s Best Player
Spain’s midfield general Rodri capped off a sensational World Cup campaign by receiving the Golden Ball, awarded to the tournament’s best player.
The Manchester City star was instrumental in Spain’s run to the championship, dictating the tempo in midfield with his composure, tactical intelligence, and exceptional passing range. Whether breaking up opposition attacks or initiating Spain’s build-up play, Rodri proved to be the heartbeat of a team that remained composed under pressure throughout the tournament.
His performances reached another level during the knockout stages, where his leadership and consistency helped Spain overcome several elite opponents before lifting the World Cup trophy.
Argentina captain Lionel Messi finished second in the voting to receive the Silver Ball after another remarkable World Cup campaign, while France superstar Kylian Mbappé claimed the Bronze Ball following another prolific tournament.
Kylian Mbappé Claims Golden Boot
France forward Kylian Mbappé once again showcased why he is regarded as one of the world’s most dangerous attackers, winning the Golden Boot after finishing as the tournament’s leading scorer with 10 goals.
Mbappé consistently delivered on the biggest stage, combining blistering pace, clinical finishing, and intelligent movement to trouble every defense he faced. His goals propelled France deep into the competition and further strengthened his reputation as one of international football’s premier performers.
Messi finished second in the scoring charts with eight goals to earn the Silver Boot, while England midfielder Jude Bellingham received the Bronze Boot after scoring seven goals during an outstanding tournament.
Unai Simón Named Best Goalkeeper
Spain’s World Cup triumph was built on more than just attacking quality, with goalkeeper Unai Simón producing several decisive performances throughout the competition.
His commanding presence, crucial saves, and calm distribution earned him the Golden Glove award as the tournament’s best goalkeeper. Simón played a vital role in Spain’s defensive solidity, producing key interventions during both the knockout rounds and the final to help secure the country’s second World Cup title.
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⚽️ 2026 World Cup Awards
🥇 Golden Ball – Rodri 🇪🇸
🥈 Silver Ball – Messi 🇦🇷
🥉 Bronze Ball – Mbappé 🇫🇷🥇 Golden Boot – Mbappé 🇫🇷
🥈 Silver Boot – Messi 🇦🇷
🥉 Bronze Boot – Bellingham 🏴🧤 Golden Glove – Unai Simón 🇪🇸
👟 Young Player – Pau Cubarsí 🇪🇸
🤝 Fair Play –…— World of Statistics (@stats_feed) July 20, 2026
Pau Cubarsí Wins Best Young Player Award
Spain’s remarkable tournament also saw teenage defender Pau Cubarsí recognized as the Best Young Player.
The Barcelona center-back displayed maturity well beyond his years, establishing himself as one of the tournament’s breakout stars. Comfortable in possession and composed under pressure, Cubarsí excelled against some of the world’s best attackers while playing a crucial role in Spain’s championship-winning campaign.
His performances have further strengthened expectations that he will become one of world football’s elite defenders in the years ahead.
Netherlands Receive Fair Play Award
The Netherlands were honored with the FIFA Fair Play Award after demonstrating outstanding sportsmanship and discipline throughout the tournament.
The award recognizes the team with the best disciplinary record while also acknowledging respect for opponents, match officials, and the spirit of the game. The Dutch consistently displayed professionalism on and off the pitch, making them worthy recipients of the accolade.
Messi and Mbappé Continue Their World Cup Legacy
Although Argentina fell just short of successfully defending their title, Lionel Messi once again demonstrated why he remains one of football’s greatest players. The Argentine captain finished the tournament with eight goals and numerous match-winning performances, earning both the Silver Ball and Silver Boot.
For Mbappé, the Golden Boot added another remarkable achievement to an already illustrious World Cup career. The French superstar has now established himself as one of the defining players of his generation, consistently delivering on football’s biggest stage.
Spain’s Historic Tournament
Spain’s triumph was reflected in the tournament awards, with Rodri, Unai Simón, and Pau Cubarsí all receiving individual honors following the nation’s title-winning campaign.
The combination of experienced leaders and emerging young talent proved to be the perfect formula as Spain reclaimed football’s biggest prize, while several of their players cemented their status among the world’s elite.
2026 FIFA World Cup Award Winners
Golden Ball (Best Player): Rodri (Spain)
Silver Ball: Lionel Messi (Argentina)
Bronze Ball: Kylian Mbappé (France)
Golden Boot (Top Scorer): Kylian Mbappé (France) – 10 goals
Silver Boot: Lionel Messi (Argentina) – 8 goals
Bronze Boot: Jude Bellingham (England) – 7 goals
Golden Glove (Best Goalkeeper): Unai Simón (Spain)
Best Young Player: Pau Cubarsí (Spain)
FIFA Fair Play Award: Netherlands
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