Barcelona forward and Argentina captain Lionel Messi has been named the best player at the World Cup, winning the Golden Ball award.
Messi took the prize ahead of nine competitors – Mats Hummels, Toni Kroos, Thomas Muller and Germany captain Philipp Lahm were listed from the eventual champions.
James Rodriguez, the Golden Boot winner for the tournament’s top scorer, was also among the candidates, as were Barca pair Neymar and Javier Mascherano.
Former Real Madrid winger Arjen Robben was also included, as was current Madrid midfielder Angel Di Maria.
Messi scored four goals in the tournament, all in the group stage, including a double against Nigeria.
