2026 World Cup Awards: Mbappé, Rodri, Simón Shine

Kylian Mbappé has once again emerged as the leading scorer at the FIFA World Cup after retaining the Golden Boot award, as the top individual honours from the 2026 tournament were announced following Spain’s dramatic 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina in the final.

According to Ireporter Online, the France captain finished the competition as the highest-scoring player with 10 goals in eight appearances, beating Argentina skipper Lionel Messi by two goals.

Mbappé featured in every match for France and successfully defended the Golden Boot he won at the 2022 World Cup, where he scored eight goals. The 27-year-old also strengthened his position as the highest-scoring player in World Cup history, taking his overall tally to 22 goals.

Spain midfielder Rodri was awarded the Golden Ball after playing a key role in his nation’s title-winning campaign. The experienced midfielder started all eight matches and controlled the middle of the pitch as Spain produced a dominant defensive display, conceding only one goal throughout the tournament.

Spain goalkeeper Unai Simón claimed the Golden Glove award after recording seven clean sheets, highlighting his contribution to Spain’s successful run to their second World Cup trophy.

Young defender Pau Cubarsí was named the tournament’s Best Young Player following an outstanding breakthrough performance, while Ferran Torres received the Player of the Match award in the final after scoring the winning goal in extra time against Argentina.

The Netherlands were honoured with the FIFA Fair Play Award after an impressive tournament campaign. The Dutch side remained unbeaten in the group stage and received only three yellow cards before their elimination in the Round of 16 by Morocco.

Spain’s triumph also created history for head coach Luis de la Fuente, who became the oldest manager to win the FIFA World Cup at the age of 65. He surpassed former Spain coach Vicente del Bosque, who won the 2010 World Cup at the age of 59.

The victory also made De la Fuente the first coach above the age of 60 to lift football’s most prestigious international trophy.