Spain Sweep Major 2026 World Cup Awards
Spain completed a dominant 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign by winning three of the tournament’s four major individual player awards following their 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina in the final.
Rodri Wins 2026 World Cup Golden Ball
Midfielder Rodri received the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player after controlling Spain’s midfield throughout their successful campaign.
The 30-year-old completed a remarkable comeback after recovering from a serious knee injury that had disrupted his career less than two years earlier. He added the World Cup Golden Ball to an honours list that already includes the Ballon d’Or, European Championship and Champions League.
Argentina captain Lionel Messi received the Silver Ball after scoring eight goals and providing four assists. France forward Kylian Mbappé claimed the Bronze Ball.
Unai Simon Receives Golden Glove
Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon won the Golden Glove after conceding only one goal across eight matches.
Simon recorded seven clean sheets and played a central role in a defence that frustrated Argentina during the final. Spain required extra time to secure the title, with substitute Ferran Torres scoring the decisive goal in the 106th minute.
The result delivered Spain’s second men’s World Cup title, 16 years after their first triumph in South Africa in 2010.
Pau Cubarsi Named Best Young Player
Spain defender Pau Cubarsi was named the tournament’s best young player after helping his country produce the competition’s strongest defensive record.
The 19-year-old Barcelona centre-back displayed composure throughout the tournament and established himself as a key member of Luis de la Fuente’s starting line-up.
Mbappé won the Golden Boot after scoring 10 goals, finishing two ahead of Messi. England midfielder Jude Bellingham received the Bronze Boot with seven goals, while the Netherlands collected the FIFA Fair Play Award.
Spain therefore secured the World Cup trophy, Golden Ball, Golden Glove and Best Young Player award following an unbeaten tournament.
