The Origin of the Award
The Golden Ball was officially introduced by FIFA in 1982, awarded to the tournament’s most outstanding player as decided by a vote from media representatives. It's a prize that doesn’t always go to a member of the winning team, but rather to the individual
who truly defined the tournament, for better or worse.
2022: Lionel Messi (Argentina)
Capping a storybook career, Lionel Messi finally lifted the World Cup trophy and secured his second Golden Ball in the process. He became the first player in history to win the award twice. With seven goals, including two in the final, and countless moments of magic, Messi was the undeniable heart of Argentina's triumphant campaign in Qatar.
2018: Luka Modrić (Croatia)
Luka Modrić was the midfield maestro behind Croatia's incredible and unexpected run to the 2018 final in Russia. Despite losing the final to France, Modrić's tireless work rate, vision, and leadership earned him the Golden Ball. He was the engine of a team that captured the world's admiration, proving that individual brilliance can shine brightest even in defeat.
2014: Lionel Messi (Argentina)
Even in heartbreak, Messi's genius was recognised. He carried Argentina to the final in Brazil, scoring crucial goals throughout the group stage. Although his side fell to Germany in the final, Messi was awarded his first Golden Ball for his captivating individual efforts, even if the decision was seen as a consolation prize by some.
2010: Diego Forlán (Uruguay)
Diego Forlán was the talisman for a Uruguay team that defied expectations to reach the semi-finals in South Africa. With five stunning goals, including some spectacular long-range strikes, Forlán’s heroics earned him the Golden Ball. He captured the spirit of a team that punched well above its weight.
2006: Zinedine Zidane (France)
Zinedine Zidane's 2006 tournament is remembered for its dramatic and controversial ending. Before his infamous headbutt in the final, Zidane had been magnificent, guiding France with sublime skill. The votes were cast before the final match concluded, cementing his place as the Golden Ball winner based on his knockout stage brilliance, regardless of his final act.
2002: Oliver Kahn (Germany)
To date, Oliver Kahn remains the only goalkeeper to win the Golden Ball. The German captain was a titan, single-handedly dragging a less-fancied German side to the final with a series of heroic performances. Despite a rare error in the final against Brazil, his dominance throughout the tournament was undeniable.
1998: Ronaldo (Brazil)
Before the mystery and controversy of the final, Ronaldo Nazário was electric at the 1998 World Cup in France. At just 21, his combination of speed, power, and skill was terrifying for defenders. He scored four goals and was the driving force behind Brazil's path to the final, earning him the Golden Ball despite the team's ultimate defeat.
1994: Romário (Brazil)
Romário was the swaggering superstar at the heart of Brazil’s 1994 World Cup-winning side. With five goals and an unforgettable partnership with Bebeto, his explosive talent and clinical finishing lit up the tournament in the USA. He was the undisputed star of a team that ended Brazil's 24-year wait for the trophy.
1990: Salvatore Schillaci (Italy)
Salvatore 'Toto' Schillaci was the ultimate surprise hero. Starting the tournament on the bench for hosts Italy, he came on to score in the first game and never looked back. With his passionate celebrations and crucial goals, he won both the Golden Ball and the Golden Boot, becoming an instant national icon.
1986: Diego Maradona (Argentina)
Perhaps the most iconic World Cup performance of all time. Diego Maradona single-handedly dragged Argentina to glory in Mexico. He scored five goals, including the infamous 'Hand of God' and the 'Goal of the Century' in the same match against England. His Golden Ball win is seen as the most deserved in the award's history.
1982: Paolo Rossi (Italy)
Paolo Rossi's story is one of incredible redemption. Returning from a two-year ban just in time for the World Cup, he started slow but exploded in the knockout stages. His six goals, including a hat-trick against Brazil and the opener in the final, led Italy to victory and won him the inaugural Golden Ball alongside the Golden Boot.
