Spain midfielder Rodri has described winning the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the tournament’s Golden Ball award as “the perfect script” after helping his country defeat Argentina 1-0 in Sunday’s final.
The 30-year-old was named the tournament’s best player following Spain’s title-winning campaign, capping a remarkable comeback less than two years after suffering a serious knee ligament injury.
Rodri admitted he never imagined completing such a journey after returning from one of the most difficult periods of his career.
“It feels like the perfect script. I certainly didn’t expect this,” he said after receiving the Golden Ball.
“I’d love for the younger generations to see that a player who touches the heavens, then descends into hell, can come back. It’s a lesson in overcoming adversity.”
Historic achievement
With Spain’s victory, Rodri joined an exclusive group of football legends to have won the FIFA World Cup, the UEFA European Championship, the UEFA Champions League and the Ballon d’Or.
His latest honour follows Spain’s European Championship triumph and his Ballon d’Or success in 2024.
Praise for teammates
Rodri credited Spain’s collective mentality for their success after Ferran Torres’ extra-time winner secured victory over defending champions Argentina.
“The secret of the national team is that we’re always going to keep fighting,” he said.
“In the end, God rewards you. We’ve been brave.”
The midfielder also praised the quality of the squad following Spain’s second World Cup triumph.
“We’re on cloud nine. This squad is sensational. We’re two-time World Cup champions. It was the toughest tournament in World Cup history.”
‘Fair result’
Spain controlled much of the final before eventually breaking Argentina’s resistance in extra time.
Rodri acknowledged the challenge posed by Lionel Messi and the defending champions but believed Spain deserved to lift the trophy.
“Argentina are world champions. They don’t create many chances, but they’re very difficult to break down,” he said.
“Spain are simply a very good team, and in the end, the result was fair.”
