Mbappe, Messi Lead Golden Ball Hunt Ahead of World Cup Semi-Finals

As the World Cup 2026 semi-finals draw near, the frontrunners for this year's highly coveted Golden Ball award have been identified. The football world is buzzing with anticipation as France prepares to clash with Spain in their semi-final match on Tuesday, while England is set to face Argentina on Wednesday.

According to data from Polymarket, as reported by football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano on Tuesday, France's captain, Kylian Mbappe, currently holds the strongest probability of clinching the prestigious individual accolade. The 27-year-old forward, who has impressed with eight goals and three assists throughout the tournament, is estimated to have a 42% chance of winning the award.

Trailing Mbappe is Argentina's captain, Lionel Messi, who also boasts eight goals but has provided two assists. Messi's chances of securing the Golden Ball stand at 30%. England's midfield sensation, Jude Bellingham, is also in the running, having scored six goals and registered one assist, giving him a 17% likelihood of winning. Rounding out the top four contenders is England's captain, Harry Kane, who has contributed six goals and one assist during the competition, with his chances currently placed at 5%.