The debate over the standout player of the 2026 FIFA World Cup has intensified after The New York Times ranked Lionel Messi as the tournament’s best performer, despite FIFA awarding the official Golden Ball to Spain midfielder Rodri.
Messi, who inspired Argentina to a second consecutive World Cup final with eight goals and four assists, was placed first in the newspaper’s rankings. France captain Kylian Mbappé came second, while Rodri, who captained Spain to the title, was ranked third. The rest of the top 10 included Jude Bellingham, Pau Cubarsí, Aymeric Laporte, Erling Haaland, Harry Kane, Michael Olise and Ousmane Dembélé.
The ranking contrasts with FIFA’s official awards, where Rodri claimed the Golden Ball after leading Spain to their second World Cup title. The Manchester City midfielder was praised for controlling games throughout the tournament, helping Spain concede no goals until the final and producing another commanding display in the 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina.
Messi’s omission from the Golden Ball has divided football fans and pundits. Several major media outlets and analysts praised the Argentine captain’s individual tournament, arguing that his influence on Argentina’s run to the final deserved recognition as the competition’s best player. Others believe FIFA made the right call by rewarding Rodri’s consistency and his central role in Spain lifting the trophy.
The discussion has gathered momentum on social media, where supporters continue comparing individual brilliance with team success. While Messi’s statistics were among the tournament’s best, Rodri’s supporters point to Spain’s unbeaten campaign and defensive dominance as evidence that the midfielder deserved football’s biggest individual prize.
With opinions split between the official award and media selections, the debate over who truly was the player of the tournament is likely to continue long after the final whistle in New Jersey.
