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Rodri has become the seventh player to win the Champions League, World Cup, Ballon d'Or and a continental trophy, joining Beckenbauer, Müller, Zidane, Rivaldo, Ronaldinho and Messi.
Rodri led Spain to World Cup glory, adding the trophy to his Ballon d'Or, Euros, and Champions League titles. The midfielder's recovery from an ACL injury in 2024 culminated in a player-of-the-tournament performance, cementing his status among football's elite.
Kylian Mbappe became the first player to win the World Cup Golden Boot twice, scoring 10 goals in 2026. Rodri won the Golden Ball as Spain swept other awards. Mbappe now holds the all-time men's World Cup scoring record with 22 goals.
Sunday's World Cup final between Spain and Argentina may determine the 2026 Ballon d'Or winner. Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal are top contenders, but history shows major trophies often precede the award.
Kylian Mbappé has overtaken Harry Kane for first place in Ballon d'Or odds on Polymarket, with 28% probability versus Kane's 25%.
Two-time Ballon d'Or winner Alexia Putellas has chosen to join Women's Super League club London City Lionesses over Boston Legacy. The 32-year-old left Barcelona after 14 years in May and is widely regarded as one of women's football's greatest players. Although the club is confident, sources say there is no final agreement yet.
Scotland captain Caroline Weir has signed a three-year contract with Lyon, the French champions and Champions League runners-up. The 30-year-old midfielder, a 2025 Ballon d'Or nominee, left Real Madrid after four seasons without winning silverware.
Manchester City and Spain midfielder Rodri has stated he would trade his 2024 Ballon d'Or for a World Cup victory and a second star on Spain's shirt, emphasizing the importance of team success over individual accolades.
Colombian star James Rodriguez has backed teammate Luis Diaz as a top-five player globally and a potential Ballon d'Or winner if Colombia reaches the Copa America final.
Lionel Messi is the only player to have won the FIFA World Cup adidas Golden Ball award twice, a record he holds as the tournament approaches.
