World Cup Golden Ball Winners: Best Player Award History
The Golden Ball is awarded to the best player at each World Cup. It is the most prestigious individual award in international football. Here is the complete history of every winner since the award was introduced in 1982.
2022 — Lionel Messi (Argentina)
Messi's Golden Ball was the crowning achievement of the greatest career in football history. He scored 7 goals, provided 3 assists, and led Argentina to the title. His performance in the final — 2 goals and an assist — was the defining moment. No player has ever been more deserving of the award.
2018 — Luka Modric (Croatia)
Modric led Croatia to their first World Cup final, controlling midfield with his passing and vision. He was the heartbeat of a team that beat England and Argentina on their way to the final. His Golden Ball was a recognition of midfield artistry in an era dominated by goalscorers.
2014 — Lionel Messi (Argentina)
Messi's first Golden Ball was controversial — many felt it should have gone to James Rodriguez or Thomas Muller. Messi scored 4 goals and was Argentina's creative force, but he faded in the knockout rounds. The award reflected his overall importance to Argentina rather than a dominant tournament performance.
Other notable winners
2010 — Diego Forlan (Uruguay): Forlan's 5 goals and stunning long-range strikes made him the standout player. 2006 — Zinedine Zidane (France): Zidane was magnificent throughout, despite his infamous headbutt in the final. 2002 — Oliver Kahn (Germany): The only goalkeeper to win the Golden Ball, Kahn was sensational until the final. 1998 — Ronaldo (Brazil): Despite his mysterious illness before the final, Ronaldo was the tournament's best player. 1994 — Romario (Brazil): Five goals and a championship. 1990 — Salvatore Schillaci (Italy): The ultimate World Cup hero — unknown before the tournament, a legend after it. 1986 — Diego Maradona (Argentina): The greatest individual World Cup performance ever.
Who will win in 2026?
Mbappe is the favorite. If France go deep and he scores freely, the Golden Ball is his. Bellingham, Vinicius Jr, and Messi (if he plays) are other candidates. The Golden Ball often goes to the best player on the winning team, so the champion's star player has the inside track.