Dubai: Spain may have lifted football’s biggest prize, but the individual honours highlighted some of the tournament’s brightest stars. Led by Kylian Mbappé’s historic Golden Boot-winning campaign and Rodri’s commanding performances in midfield, FIFA recognised the standout performers of the 2026 World Cup.

Official award winners

World Cup Champions: Spain

Spanish players, family and friend celebrate after the World Cup 2026 final match between Spain and Argentina. AP

Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 after extra time to claim their second FIFA World Cup title.

Golden Ball (Best Player): Rodri (Spain)

Spain's Rodri celebrates winning the Golden Ball award. REUTERS

Rodri was named the tournament’s best player after orchestrating Spain’s unbeaten run to the title with a series of influential displays in midfield.

Golden Boot (Top Goalscorer): Kylian Mbappé (France)

France's Kylian Mbappe. AP

Mbappé claimed the Golden Boot after scoring 10 goals in eight matches. He also became the all-time leading goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history with 22 career goals.

Golden Glove (Best Goalkeeper): Unai Simón (Spain)

Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon poses with the tournament's best goalkeeper award. AP

Simón won the Golden Glove after keeping seven clean sheets and conceding just one goal throughout the tournament. He also set a World Cup record with 650 consecutive minutes without conceding.

Best Young Player: Pau Cubarsí (Spain)

Spain's Pau Cubarsi poses with the tournament young player award. AP

The 19-year-old defender played a pivotal role in Spain’s formidable back line and was named the tournament’s best young player.

Fair Play Award: Netherlands

The Netherlands received the FIFA Fair Play Award for maintaining the tournament’s best disciplinary record.

Ball rankings

  • Golden Ball: Rodri (Spain)
  • Silver Ball: Lionel Messi (Argentina)
  • Bronze Ball: Kylian Mbappé (France)

Boot rankings

  • Golden Boot: Kylian Mbappé (France) – 10 goals
  • Silver Boot: Lionel Messi (Argentina) – 8 goals
  • Bronze Boot: Jude Bellingham (England) – 7 goals