Spain captain Rodri wins World Cup player of the tournament award
Manchester City midfielder Rodri has been awarded the Golden Ball as the best player of the 2026 World Cup after leading Spain to a 1-0 victory over Argentina. The win marks a significant comeback for the player following a serious knee injury in 2024.
Why it matters
This recognizes a major milestone in international football, highlighting the career trajectory of a top-tier athlete after a major physical setback.
Spain captain Rodri won the Golden Ball award for the best player at the 2026 World Cup on Sunday after leading his team to a 1-0 victory against Argentina.
The 30-year-old Manchester City midfielder, who won the Ballon d'Or for the world's best player in 2024, said the team were "a bit shocked right now".
Rodri ruptured an anterior cruciate ligament while playing for City against Arsenal in September 2024, making his competitive return the following May.
"Even myself I cannot express with words," he said. "I think now we're like in a cloud.
"It's been a very tough time. I just want the new generations to see my example as an opportunity -- when you go down you can rise again.
"This is my philosophy my entire life. Of course, sometimes things go well, things they go wrong.
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