Golden Boot for Mbappe, Golden Ball for Spain, Silver Ball for Messi

Golden Boot for Mbappe, Golden Ball for Spain, Silver Ball for Messi

Sports Desk
Sports Desk

Published: 12:34 20 July 2026

In addition to team success, the new world champion Spain also showed dominance in individual awards at the FIFA World Cup 2026. The awards for the best player, best goalkeeper and best young player of the tournament went to the Spanish players.

On the other hand, the Golden Boot award for the highest scorer was won by France's Kylian Mbappe. However, due to the defeat in the final, Argentina captain Lionel Messi, who was in the running for the Golden Ball and Golden Boot, did not receive these two awards in the end. Although he won the Silver Ball as the second best player of the tournament.

This award was given in recognition of Messi's excellent performance, according to ESPN. His leadership, goals and contribution at key moments throughout the World Cup played a major role in Argentina reaching the final for the second time in a row.

Mbappe wins the Golden Boot for the second time in a row

Kylian Mbappe made history by scoring 10 goals in 8 matches in this year's World Cup. He has set a unique record by becoming the top scorer in the second consecutive World Cup.

He has surpassed Lionel Messi in the race for the Golden Boot. The Argentine captain finished the tournament with 8 goals.

Golden Ball in the hands of Spain's Rodri

Spain captain Rodri won the Golden Ball award for the best player of the World Cup. He played an important role in Spain's title win with his consistent performance in midfield, leadership and match control skills.

The Manchester City midfielder has previously won the Ballon d'Or in 2023 and the Best Player of Euro 2024 awards.

Messi's Silver Ball Achievement

Although he could not score in the final, the 39-year-old Messi was in extraordinary form throughout the World Cup. In addition to scoring 8 goals in 8 matches, he also made his teammates score at crucial times.

Messi's two assists played a key role in Argentina's victory over England in the semi-finals. He received the Silver Ball in recognition of his leadership and consistent performance.

Messi, who previously won the Golden Ball in the 2014 and 2022 World Cups, finished the World Cup with the second best player award. Mbappe received the Bronze Ball as the third best player.

The Golden Glove and Young Player awards also went to Spain

The Golden Glove award for best goalkeeper was won by Spain's Unai Simeone. He kept seven clean sheets in 8 matches, conceding only one goal in the entire tournament.

The Best Young Player award went to Spain's 19-year-old defender Pau Kuberci. This young Barcelona defender performed regularly throughout the World Cup and became one of the strengths of Spain's defense.

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