The FIFA World Cup 2026 came to an end with Spain winning the title for the second time in its history after defeating Argentina 1-0 in the final in New Jersey.
Following the conclusion of the tournament, FIFA announced its individual awards to honour the players who delivered outstanding performances throughout the competition.
Rodri
Spain midfielder Rodri was named the tournament’s best player, receiving the adidas Golden Ball after playing a pivotal role in his team’s successful campaign.
His performances in midfield helped Spain lift the trophy while conceding only one goal across the tournament.
Lionel Messi
Argentina captain Lionel Messi finished as the runner-up in the best player category, earning the adidas Silver Ball. France forward Kylian Mbappe received the adidas Bronze Ball after another impressive World Cup campaign.
Mbappe
Mbappe also finished as the tournament’s leading scorer, winning the adidas Golden Boot with 10 goals in eight matches. Messi claimed the adidas Silver Boot after scoring eight goals, while England midfielder Jude Bellingham secured the adidas Bronze Boot with seven goals.
Unai Simon
Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon was awarded the adidas Golden Glove after keeping seven clean sheets in eight appearances, including a shutout in the World Cup final against Argentina.
Pau Cubarsi
Young Spain defender Pau Cubarsi was recognised as the tournament’s top emerging talent, winning the FIFA Young Player Award, presented by Aramco. Cubarsi was a key figure in Spain’s defence, which conceded only one goal throughout the tournament.
FIFA World Cup 2026 individual award winners
| Award | Winner | Country |
|---|---|---|
| adidas Golden Ball | Rodri | Spain |
| adidas Silver Ball | Lionel Messi | Argentina |
| adidas Bronze Ball | Kylian Mbappe | France |
| adidas Golden Boot | Kylian Mbappe (10 goals) | France |
| adidas Silver Boot | Lionel Messi (8 goals) | Argentina |
| adidas Bronze Boot | Jude Bellingham (7 goals) | England |
| adidas Golden Glove | Unai Simon | Spain |
| FIFA Young Player Award (presented by Aramco) | Pau Cubarsi | Spain |
Spain also received the tournament’s highest prize money of $50 million for winning the World Cup.
Argentina earned $33 million as runners-up, while third-placed England collected $29 million and fourth-placed France received $27 million.
FIFA distributed a total prize fund of $655 million among participating teams during the 2026 World Cup, representing a substantial increase compared to the previous edition.
