As the 2026 FIFA World Cup enters the semi-final stage, France captain Kylian Mbappe has emerged as the leading contender to win this year’s Golden Ball award.
The race for the tournament’s best player award has narrowed to four standout performers, with France, Spain, England and Argentina battling for places in the final.
According to prediction platform Polymarket, as shared by football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano on Tuesday, Mbappe is the favourite to claim the Golden Ball.
The 27-year-old forward, who has scored eight goals and registered three assists at the tournament, is given a 42 per cent chance of winning the prestigious individual prize.
Argentina captain Lionel Messi is second in the rankings with a 30 per cent chance. The veteran forward has also scored eight goals but has provided two assists during the competition.
England midfielder Jude Bellingham occupies third place after contributing six goals and one assist, giving him a 17 per cent chance of winning the award.
England skipper Harry Kane completes the top four contenders. The striker has also recorded six goals and one assist and is currently rated with a five per cent chance of lifting the Golden Ball.
