France forward Kylian Mbappe made FIFA World Cup history by becoming the first player to win the Golden Boot on two occasions after the conclusion of the 2026 tournament.
The 27-year-old finished as the competition’s top scorer with 10 goals, securing the award after Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in the World Cup final in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Ten-Goal Tournament
Mbappe sealed the Golden Boot race by scoring twice in France’s 6-4 defeat to England in the third-place playoff.
His closest remaining challenger was Lionel Messi, who entered the final hoping to win his first Golden Boot while leading Argentina to back-to-back World Cup titles.
However, Messi was unable to add to his tally after being held scoreless in the final, where Argentina failed to register a shot on target against Spain.
New Goal Record
Mbappe also strengthened his place among the greatest goalscorers in World Cup history.
His two goals against England took his career World Cup tally to 22 goals in just 22 matches, surpassing Messi’s previous record of 21 goals.
The French striker also became the first player since Germany’s Gerd Muller in 1970 to score 10 goals in a single FIFA World Cup.
Eight of Mbappe’s 10 goals at the 2026 tournament came in four separate braces, against Iraq, Senegal, Sweden and England.
Spain Sweep Awards
Following Spain’s World Cup triumph, several Spanish players also received major individual honours.
Midfielder Rodri won the Golden Ball, awarded to the tournament’s best player. Although he did not score or provide an assist, he led the competition in completed passes, distance covered and overall player involvements while playing a vital role in Spain’s title-winning campaign.
More Spanish Honours
Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon received the Golden Glove after keeping seven clean sheets, setting a new record for the most shutouts in a single FIFA World Cup.
Meanwhile, defender Pau Cubarsi was named FIFA Best Young Player following a standout tournament in Spain’s defence.
Spain conceded just one goal throughout the tournament and allowed only 10 shots on target across eight matches, underlining the team’s defensive dominance.
FIFA Recognition
The Golden Ball, Golden Glove and Best Young Player awards were selected by FIFA’s Technical Study Group, comprising former players, coaches and football analysts.
Mbappe’s record-breaking Golden Boot, combined with Spain’s dominance in the individual awards, marked a memorable conclusion to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
