RANKED: FIFA Golden Ball Award Winners Since 1982

The FIFA World Cup Golden Ball Award is one of the most prestigious individual awards a football player can ever receive. Since its inception in 1982, some of the greatest football players of all time have won this award.

As a football enthusiast, it is always interesting to take a trip down memory lane and reminisce about these players who have made a mark on the world stage.

Paolo Rossi was the first player to win the award in 1982, and his achievement paved the way for other legendary footballers to follow in his footsteps. Diego Maradona won it in 1886, Salvatore Schillaci in 1990, Romario in 1994, Ronaldo Nazario in 1998, Oliver Kahn in 2002, Zinedine Zidane in 2006, and Diego Forlan in 2010. Lionel Messi in 2014, Luka Modric in 2018, and Mbappe in 2022 have been awarded the Golden Ball over the years.

Each of these players had a unique impact on their respective teams during the World Cup, leaving a lasting impression in the minds of football fans worldwide. Their skill, agility, and leadership qualities were on full display as they led their teams to victory in one of the most competitive sporting events in the world.

As we look back on the list of Golden Ball winners, it is easy to see why football remains one of the most beloved sports globally. With so many great players having graced the World Cup stage over the years, it is no wonder why this tournament has become a symbol of unity, passion, and sportsmanship.

So, whether you are a die-hard football fan or simply curious about the history of the World Cup, taking a closer look at the FIFA World Cup Golden Ball award winners since 1982 is worth your time.

The morning Chelsea headlines with major updates on Ivan Toney, Eden Hazard and the Blues' search for a new manager

Your Chelsea morning digest on Tuesday, May 9.

Toney to Chelsea?

Micah Richards has heaped praise on Ivan Toney, questioning why the Brentford star has gone under the radar. In an interview with the Daily Mail, the former Manchester City defender insisted that he'd love to see the striker included in the PFA team of the year.

"One thing I�ve always loved seeing is how a player improves from one season to the next," said Richards. "Ivan Toney�s progress, then, has given me a huge thrill. Twenty League goals for Brentford? Wow.

"I don�t know why but nobody is talking about him as much as they should. Toney was superb at Liverpool, his touch and awareness outstanding. I�d love to see him in the PFA team of the year."

Hazard breaks silence

Eden Hazard has confirmed that he wants to see out the remainder of his contract at Real Madrid, ruling out a move in the summer. The 32-year-old forward faces an increasingly uncertain future at the Santiago Bernabeu with his contract set to expire at the end of next season.

Speaking to Cadena Cope after Los Blancos' 2-1 over Osasuna in the Copa del Rey final at the weekend, the Belgian revealed his plans for next season. Hazard said: "I hope to play. It's been a difficult year but it's a year with a very big club.

"I have a good relationship with the coach and the players. I want to play but I know that's very difficult. I just have to work and hope I can play more."

Manager search deadline

Chelsea appear to have taken a huge leap towards finally appointing a permanent successor to Graham Potter. The Blues have been heavily linked with numerous managers over the last month or so and it appears the search could finally be coming to an end soon.

According to The Athletic, a final decision to set to be made in the next few days with an an announcement to 'follow in due course'. The report states that Mauricio Pochettino is a 'strong favourite' for the vacant position, breaking the hearts of those who may have preferred Jose Mourinho.

To pile on the misery, the Roma boss has reportedly ruled out a return to west London despite having entered the final year of his contract in the Italian capital.

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