The race to be crowned the 2026 World Cup‘s best player has reached a thrilling climax.
A handful of elite global superstars have separated themselves from the chasing pack with some incredibly decisive, tournament-defining displays.
Originally introduced at Spain 1982, the Golden Ball recognises the tournament’s most outstanding individual performer. Clinical Italian striker Paolo Rossi was the inaugural recipient after firing his country to glory.
Since then, only the sport’s absolute finest have claimed this legendary prize. Argentina’s Lionel Messi remains the only player in football history to win it twice.
Several iconic figures have outstanding claims to the individual crown in North America. Below are the latest market prices ahead of the final phase.
The latest World Cup 2026 Golden Ball odds
| Player | Odds from Bet365 | Odds from BetVictor | Odds from Paddy Power |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lionel Messi (Argentina) | 6/4 | 7/4 | 6/4 |
| Jude Bellingham (England) | 9/4 | 2/1 | 9/4 |
| Rodri (Spain) | 7/2 | 7/2 | 7/2 |
| Harry Kane (England) | 9/1 | 10/1 | 10/1 |
| Lamine Yamal (Spain) | 9/1 | 12/1 | 10/1 |
| Mikel Oyarzabal (Spain) | 20/1 | 20/1 | 25/1 |
Who will win the Golden Ball?
Lionel Messi (Argentina)
The Argentine maestro is currently the 7/4 frontrunner to claim a historic third tournament MVP trophy. Messi has remained the standard for consistency, spearheading his country’s attack with eight goals. Since his landmark transfer to Inter Miami, the legendary playmaker has continued to deliver masterclasses on the global stage.
Jude Bellingham (England)
Bellingham has been the energetic driving force behind England’s march through the knockout stage. The midfielder has registered six crucial goals so far. His tournament highlights include successive braces to sink Mexico and Norway. The Real Madrid star has swiftly evolved from a creative orchestrator into a lethal penalty-box threat.
Rodri (Spain)
The metronomic midfielder has served as the tactical heartbeat of an exceptionally fluent Spanish side. His unique ability to dominate transition play has guided La Roja directly to Sunday’s final. Rodri’s immense defensive coverage and composure under pressure make him an incredibly strong candidate to win over the technical panel.
Harry Kane (England)
The 2018 Golden Boot winner remains the crucial focal point of his country’s attacking unit. Kane has notched six goals at these finals to enhance his legendary international scoring record. This clinical form follows an spectacular campaign under Vincent Kompany at Bayern Munich, where he netted 61 goals across all competitions.
Lamine Yamal (Spain)
The young phenom hasn’t hit the heights that many expected him to at this tournament, however, his electrifying pace and trickery make him a constant live threat. Despite recently overcoming a hamstring issue, Yamal has consistently been Spain’s chief creator. A decisive performance in Sunday’s final could easily see the Barcelona youngster swoop in to steal the individual crown.
