Spain’s success extends beyond the trophy
Spain’s World Cup victory was followed by an impressive haul of individual honours.
Rodri received the Golden Ball, Unai Simón won the Golden Glove and Pau Cubarsí was named the tournament’s best young player.
According to FIFA’s official report on the 2026 World Cup award winners, the Spanish trio were recognised after their country defeated Argentina in the final.
Rodri claims the Golden Ball
Manchester City midfielder Rodri was named the best player of the tournament.
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His calm passing, positional discipline and influence in central midfield made him a vital part of Spain’s title-winning side.
The award added another major individual honour to his career and reflected his importance throughout Spain’s campaign.
Messi finishes behind the Spanish midfielder
Lionel Messi had been among the leading candidates for the Golden Ball as Argentina reached another World Cup final.
However, Rodri took the top award, with Messi receiving the Silver Ball as the tournament’s second-best player.
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France striker Kylian Mbappé completed the top three by winning the Bronze Ball.
Simón rewarded for outstanding tournament
Unai Simón received the Golden Glove as the World Cup’s leading goalkeeper.
The Athletic Club player conceded only one goal during the entire tournament, providing Spain with a reliable presence behind its defence.
His saves and command of the penalty area played an important role in Spain’s run to the title.
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Cubarsí named the best young player
Barcelona defender Pau Cubarsí was chosen as the tournament’s leading young player.
At 19, he showed composure well beyond his years while playing a central role in Spain’s defence.
His performances underlined his rapid development and strengthened his reputation as one of Spanish football’s brightest prospects.
A defence built on control
Spain’s defensive record was one of the foundations of its success.
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The team conceded just once during the competition, with Simón and Cubarsí both earning individual recognition for their contributions.
That record also reflected Spain’s ability to control matches through possession and disciplined positioning.
Mbappé prevents a complete sweep
Spain did not win every major individual award.
Mbappé claimed the Golden Boot after scoring 10 goals for France, finishing ahead of Messi in the tournament’s scoring rankings.
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The Netherlands received the FIFA Fair Play Award, meaning Spain’s sweep was limited to the three main player prizes.
Awards complete a memorable campaign
The individual honours provided a fitting conclusion to Spain’s successful World Cup.
Rodri’s authority in midfield, Simón’s consistency in goal and Cubarsí’s maturity in defence represented three different strengths within the side.
Together, their awards showed how Spain’s collective success was supported by outstanding performances across the pitch.
