Spain captain Rodri has been named the winner of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Golden Ball, emerging as the tournament’s best player after leading his country to World Cup glory.
The Manchester City midfielder captained Spain to a 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina in the final, ending the country’s 16-year wait for a second FIFA World Cup title since their triumph in South Africa in 2010.
Rodri played in every match of Spain’s successful campaign, delivering a series of commanding performances throughout the tournament. He finished with the highest number of completed passes, covered the greatest distance and recorded more player involvements than any other player at the competition.
The award adds another major honour to Rodri’s growing list of achievements. Having won the Ballon d’Or in 2024 and the UEFA Champions League with Manchester City, he has now become only the 11th player in football history to win the FIFA World Cup, UEFA Champions League and Ballon d’Or.
The midfielder had also claimed the Player of the Tournament award at UEFA Euro 2024, further cementing his status as one of the game’s leading midfielders.
Spain dominated the individual awards at the tournament, with defender Pau Cubarsí named the Young Player of the Tournament, while goalkeeper Unai Simón received the Golden Glove after keeping seven clean sheets.
France forward Kylian Mbappé finished as the tournament’s top scorer, claiming the Golden Boot with 10 goals despite France’s semi-final exit.
Rodri’s Golden Ball triumph capped a remarkable World Cup campaign in which he inspired Spain to lift the trophy and reaffirm their place among world football’s elite.
