Rodri returns from 'hell' to drive Spain to World Cup glory
Spanish midfielder Rodri led Spain to victory in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, completing a historic collection of major football trophies. The win marks a significant comeback for the player, who returned to top form less than two years after suffering a severe knee injury.
Why it matters
Rodri's achievement places him among the most decorated players in football history, highlighting a remarkable recovery from a career-threatening injury.
Spain's Rodri celebrates on the podium after winning the Golden Ball following the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final, at New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, U.S., July 19, 2026. REUTERS/Evan Vucci
EAST RUTHERFORD, New Jersey, July 19 : Spain's midfield rock Rodri hopes younger generations can learn from his experience in overcoming adversity after he won the World Cup on Sunday to complete his collection of the game's major prizes less than two years after rupturing his knee ligaments.
The 30-year-old was named the tournament's best player and joined greats Franz Beckenbauer, Gerd Muller and Zinedine Zidane as the only men to win the World Cup and European Championship at international level, the European Cup/Champions League with his club, and the Ballon d'Or.
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