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Spain captain Rodrigo Hernández Cascante, popularly known as Rodri, has won the Golden Ball award as the best player of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after leading his team to a 1-0 victory over Argentina in the final.
The 30-year-old Manchester City midfielder played a key role in Spain’s success, helping the team secure their World Cup title.
Rodri, who also won the Ballon d’Or in 2024 as the world’s best player, said the team was still trying to process the historic achievement.
“We are a bit shocked right now,” he said.
The midfielder returned to top-level football after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury while playing for Manchester City against Arsenal in September 2024.
He made his competitive comeback in May 2025.
Reflecting on his journey, Rodri said: “Even myself I cannot express with words. I think now we’re like in a cloud.”
He described his recovery period as difficult and encouraged young people to remain hopeful during challenging times.
“It’s been a very tough time. I just want the new generations to see my example as an opportunity — when you go down you can rise again.”
Rodri said staying positive helped him and his teammates before the final.
“This is my philosophy my entire life. Of course, sometimes things go well, things they go wrong.”
He added that Spain approached the final with confidence and determination.
“We need to face them. We have to look to the eyes and see it. We won this game and then life gives you the World Cup or not.”
Rodri said winning the tournament was a reward for the team’s courage and belief.
“But we were brave and I was brave in that moment.”
