The Golden Ball award was first presented in 1982 to the world’s best player at the FIFA World Cup. Top goal scorers (or goal scorers) receive the Golden Boot. Golden Gloves awards have been given annually since 1994 to the best goaltenders at tournaments. The Best Young Player award is given to players under the age of 21.
Media representatives vote on a shortlist of candidates compiled by FIFA’s technical committee.
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Seven consecutive victories have been achieved by Brazil.
Check out the winners of the Golden Ball:
| Year | Golden Ball Winner | Country |
| 2018 | Luka Modric | Croatia |
| 2014 | Lionel Messi | Argentina |
| 2010 | Diego Forlán | Uruguay |
| 2006 | Zinedine ZIDANE | France |
| 2002 | Oliver KAHN | Germany |
| 1998 | RONALDO | Brazil |
| 1994 | ROMÁRIO (Romário de Souza Faria) | Brazil |
| 1990 | Salvatore SCHILLACI | Italy |
| 1986 | Diego MARADONA | Argentina |
| 1982 | Paolo ROSSI | Italy |
| 1978 | Mario Kempes | Argentina |
| 1974 | Johan Cruyff | Netherlands |
| 1970 | Pelé | Brazil |
| 1966 | Bobby Charlton | England |
| 1962 | Garrincha | Brazil |
| 1958 | Didi | Brazil |
| 1954 | Ferenc Puskás | Hungary |
| 1950 | Zizinho | Brazil |
| 1938 | Leônidas | Brazil |
| 1934 | Giuseppe Meazza | Italy |
| 1930 | José Nasazzi | Uruguay |
