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RABAT – Spain’s historic FIFA World Cup triumph over Argentina was capped by a clean sweep of the tournament’s top individual honors, with Rodri, Unai Simón, and Pau Cubarsí all receiving major awards following La Roja’s victory in New Jersey.
Manchester City midfielder Rodri was named the tournament’s best player, winning the prestigious Golden Ball after playing a central role in Spain’s successful campaign.
The award crowned a remarkable comeback for the 30-year-old, who returned to the highest level after recovering from a serious ACL injury that sidelined him for much of the 2024-25 season.
“This group is incredible,” he said after the final. “We are two-time world champions. It’s the hardest achievement in football, and we did it against a team like Argentina.”
Rodri also described his return from injury as one of the defining moments of his career, saying he hoped it would inspire future generations to believe that setbacks can be overcome.
Goalkeeper Unai Simón received the Golden Glove after anchoring one of the tournament’s strongest defensive performances, while teenage Barcelona defender Pau Cubarsí was named Best Young Player following an outstanding World Cup campaign.
Cubarsí edged fellow Barcelona teammate Lamine Yamal for the award, underlining the depth of Spain’s emerging generation.
Argentina captain Lionel Messi, who was hoping to claim a record third World Cup Golden Ball, missed out on the tournament’s top individual prize despite leading the reigning champions to a second consecutive final.
Meanwhile, France forward Kylian Mbappé finished as the competition’s top scorer with 10 goals, earning the Golden Boot despite Les Bleus ending their campaign in fourth place.
Spain’s sweep of the major awards reinforced the impression that Luis de la Fuente’s side not only conquered the tournament collectively but also produced many of its standout individual performers.
With experienced leaders like Rodri and Simón combining with young stars such as Cubarsí and Yamal, La Roja appears well positioned to remain among international football’s elite for years to come.
