Spain captain Rodri was named the winner of the Golden Ball after inspiring his country to a 1-0 victory over Argentina in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final on Sunday.

The 30-year-old Manchester City midfielder capped a remarkable tournament with the award for the competition’s best player, adding another prestigious honour to his growing collection after winning the 2024 Ballon d’Or.

An emotional Rodri admitted he was struggling to put the achievement into words after helping Spain secure the world title.

“Even myself I cannot express with words,” he said. “I think now we’re like in a cloud.”

The triumph marked the culmination of a remarkable comeback for the midfielder, whose career was temporarily derailed after rupturing the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his right knee during Manchester City’s Premier League clash with Arsenal in September 2024. He returned to competitive action in May 2025 before leading Spain to World Cup glory.

Reflecting on his recovery, Rodri said he hoped his journey would inspire others facing adversity.

“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 go wrong. But always the positivity.”

The Spain skipper also revealed the message he delivered to his teammates before the final, urging them to approach the occasion with courage and confidence.

“I said to the lads before the game – we have to go for the game. We need to face them. We have to look them in the eyes. We won this game and then life gives you the World Cup or not.

“But we were brave, and I was brave in that moment.”

Rodri’s leadership and commanding performances throughout the tournament were instrumental in Spain’s successful World Cup campaign, with the midfielder once again proving why he is regarded as one of the finest players in world football.