Only Lionel Messi Has Won the Golden Ball Twice: Who Else Has Been Named Best Player?
With the FIFA World Cup 2026 just weeks away, teams are deeply engaged in preparation. At the World Cup, outstanding players are honored with awards such as the Golden Ball, Golden Boot, Golden Glove, and Young Player Award. Since 1982, the Golden Ball and Golden Boot have been presented at the tournament, with Lionel Messi winning the Golden Ball in 2022. (May 24, Kathmandu)
The grand festival of world football, the FIFA World Cup 2026, is approaching in just a few weeks. Teams participating in the tournament are currently focused on their preparation. Eager anticipation surrounds who will claim the title. Alongside discussions of the championship, natural curiosity also arises about which player will deliver an exceptional performance, who will shine, and whether a new star will emerge.
Performing exceptionally on the grand stage of the World Cup and leading one’s team to victory is a unique thrill. Equally significant is being recognized as an outstanding individual performer. In the World Cup, various awards recognize individual achievements. These include the Golden Boot for the top scorer, the Golden Ball for the best player, the Golden Glove for the best goalkeeper, and the Young Player Award.
Starting from the 12th edition of the World Cup held in Spain in 1982, the tournament began officially awarding the Golden Ball to the best player and the Golden Boot to the highest goal scorer. Before that, although top scorers and best players were distinguished, there was no official award ceremony for them. The first player to win both the Golden Ball and Golden Boot in the same World Cup was Italy’s Paolo Rossi in 1982.
