Definition of Golden Ball

What is the meaning of the term Golden Ball in the sport of football?

Golden Ball is an award presented to the best player in the FIFA World Cup final tournament. The award was introduced in 1982 and it is sponsored by the sports manufacturer Adidas and France Football magazine.

At the end of every World Cup tournament FIFA comes up with a shortlist of players considered for the award and the members of the media do the voting.

Here is a list of Golden Ball award winners:

2018 - Luka Modric
2014 - Lionel Messi
2010 - Diego Forlan
2006 - Zinedine Zidane
2002 - Oliver Kahn
1998 - Ronaldo
1994 - Romario
1990 - Salvatore Schillaci
1986 - Diego Maradona
1982 - Paolo Rossi





Trophies for the second and third best player of the tournament are also awarded. They are named Silver Ball and Bronze Ball.

FIFA also gives out awards for the best goalkeeper in the tournament as well as the top goalscorer. Those awards are called Golden Glove and Golden Boot.