Croatia midfielder Luka Modric accepted the Golden Ball award as the best player at the World Cup after his side lost to France 4-2 in Sunday’s final. Modric scored two goals in the group stage and converted both of his attempts in penalty shootouts to help Croatia reach the final. The Real Madrid star embraced Croatian President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic after being given the award by FIFA president Gianni Infantino and Russia President Vladimir Putin in a rainy postgame ceremony.
“I am proud of the award,” Modric said. “The incredible fan support makes me even happier. You know that despite the defeat you’ve achieved something big, but it’s hard when you come so close and fall short.” Belgium’s Eden Hazard was awarded the Silver Ball as runner-up and France’s Antoine Griezmann was given the Bronze Ball.
France’s 19-year-old star Kylian Mbappe was named the tournament’s Best Young Player after scoring Les Bleus’ fourth goal on Sunday, becoming the youngest since Pele in 1958 to find the net in the final.