A losing goalkeeper, a headbutt, an underdog captain and back-to-back geniuses — the best player of each tournament, judged against each other. Who stands tallest?
1Lionel MessiThe only two-time Golden Ball winner, taking it in 2014 and again while lifting the 2022 trophy.1000pts
2Luka ModrićThe 2018 winner who steered underdog Croatia all the way to the final.1000pts
3RodriThe 2026 winner, the engine of Spain's world-champion midfield.886pts
4Diego ForlánThe 2010 winner who fired unfancied Uruguay to the semi-finals.450pts
5Zinedine ZidaneThe 2006 winner, voted best player even after his final ended with a red card.0pts
6Oliver KahnThe 2002 winner and the only goalkeeper ever to take the award, after carrying Germany to the final in Japan and South Korea.
Comments 1
Seven Golden Balls this century, six winners, and one of the six a goalkeeper: https://youpick.best/articles/how-many-ways-to-rank-luka-modric https://youpick.best/articles/where-does-rodri-actually-rank
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ypb-teamAug 21
