# Golden Ball Contenders: Top Players Vying for World Cup's Best Player Award

*The race for the Golden Ball, or the best player award, at the World Cup is heating up with several top contenders.*

June 13, 2026 · Sports

## At a glance

- Main contenders for the Golden Ball: Lamine Yamal, Kylian Mbappé, Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo.
- Yamal slightly ahead due to Spain's strong team and his recent performances.
- Messi and Ronaldo continue to dominate their leagues and national teams.

The football world is abuzz with speculation over who will win the Golden Ball, the award for the best player at the World Cup. The main contenders are Spain's Lamine Yamal, France's Kylian Mbappé, Argentina's Lionel Messi, and Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo. These players stand out as the top candidates for the prestigious award.

Personally, Spain's Yamal is slightly ahead due to his recent performances and the strength of the Spanish team. At 18, his talent and dedication are extraordinary. Meanwhile, Messi and Ronaldo continue to dominate their leagues and national teams, showcasing their unparalleled skills.

Mbappé's consistent performance for the national team also makes him a strong contender. Ultimately, the Golden Ball will likely go to a player whose team reaches the semi-finals or finals, highlighting the importance of team success in individual accolades.

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Source: https://pulsetoday.com.bd/en/sports/golden-ball-contenders-world-cup