FIFA World Cup 2026: Messi, Mbappe and Yamal face to face in the battle for the Golden Ball, who will become the best player of the tournament?

New Delhi . As the FIFA World Cup 2026 begins, football fans around the world have their eyes set not only on the trophy but also on the tournament’s most prestigious individual award, the ‘Golden Ball’. This award is given to the best player of the World Cup and every time there is a tough competition for it between the biggest stars of the world. This time too an exciting contest is expected between experienced veterans and young talents.

The most talked about name among the main contenders for the Golden Ball is Argentina captain Lionel Messi. 39-year-old Messi has already created history by winning this honor twice. Messi, who made Argentina champion by performing brilliantly in the 2022 World Cup, will now try to achieve another memorable achievement in the final World Cup of his career. His form in club football has also been impressive, which has further increased the expectations of his supporters.

Spain’s young star Lamin Yamal is being considered the biggest rising face of this World Cup. At the age of just 18, he has impressed the whole world with his talent. His fast pace, excellent dribbling and ability to play a decisive role in attack make him a strong contender in the race for the Golden Ball. If Spain makes a deep impression in the tournament, Yamal could make history.

French captain Kylian Mbappe is also a very strong contender in this list. Mbappe, who scored a hat-trick in the 2022 World Cup final, is already counted among the most dangerous goal scorers in World Cup history. His speed, technique and ability to perform in big matches make him special in every tournament.

England captain Harry Kane is also entering the World Cup in excellent form. Kane, who has been scoring goals consistently at the club level, will have the responsibility of making England world champions after a long time. If England is successful in winning the title, then Kane’s name may appear at the forefront of the race for the Golden Ball.

A lot of expectations are also attached to Brazilian star winger Vinicius Junior. Despite brilliant performances in club football, he has not yet been able to show his full potential on the world stage. However, in the new environment and experienced guidance, he can prove to be a game changer for Brazil.

At the same time, Portugal’s great footballer Cristiano Ronaldo is once again in the headlines. Ronaldo, who is going to participate in his sixth World Cup at the age of 41, has an opportunity to create history. If he succeeds in leading Portugal to their first World Cup title, it will be one of the most memorable achievements in football history.

Apart from these six big names, players like Erling Haaland, Kevin De Bruyne, Jamal Musiala, Florian Wirtz, Luis Diaz and Michael Olise can also make the race for the Golden Ball exciting with their performance. Overall, not only will the title fight be interesting in the World Cup 2026, but the competition to become the best player in the world will also thrill the fans.