Borrowed shoes, no Golden Boot - the story of the World Cup's greatest scorer
This article explores the legacy of Just Fontaine, who holds the record for the most goals scored in a single World Cup tournament. It contrasts his 1958 achievement with modern football stars who are currently chasing his long-standing record.
Why it matters
It provides historical context for modern sports records and highlights how tournament structure changes impact the longevity of athletic milestones.
Borrowed shoes, no Golden Boot - the story of the World Cup's greatest scorer
Image source, Getty Images By Emma Smith BBC Sport journalist Just Fontaine's record 13 goals at a single World Cup is remarkable in itself. Now consider that he wasn't wearing his own boots, and wasn't supposed to be starting France's games.
He didn't even get a Golden Boot trophy for being the 1958 tournament's top scorer - instead he was awarded an air rifle by a Swedish newspaper for being a "sharp shooter".
His name comes up every four years as the benchmark for the latest crop of players - but for the rest of the time he is a great pub quiz answer.
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