Spain dominated from start to finish and claimed the second World Cup title in their history after defeating Argentina in the final.

In that decisive match, Rodri Hernández once again stood out, as he so often does, and emerged as the undisputed star of the pitch.

Throughout the World Cup, his performance was worthy of a ‘Ballon d'Or’ winner. The Spanish midfielder has excelled without reservation.

Rodri marshalled his team, dominated the midfield with authority and set the perfect pace to guide his side to the title.

The comeback from injury

Rodri’s path to this tournament was marred by a major setback.

In September 2024, he suffered a serious knee ligament tear that sidelined him for more than eight months.

The midfielder arrived at this World Cup surrounded by doubts due to his prolonged inactivity and his on-pitch performance following the injury.

His recovery was slow, and the mental work required to rediscover his form was truly intense.

However, the Spaniard never gave up; he was resilient and recovered in time to become once again the Rodri who lifted the Ballon d'Or in 2024.

To put it simply, he started all eight matches of the tournament, regained his top form on the most demanding stage and ended up lifting the trophy as captain of Spain.

Passing record

Indeed, at this World Cup, the midfielder controlled the flow of the game with outstanding statistics and set historic records.

Rodri completed more than 650 passes throughout the tournament, setting an all-time record for a player in a single World Cup.

With this figure, he surpassed his own record set at Qatar 2022 and Xavi Hernández’s historic record from South Africa 2010.

Furthermore, he maintained an impressive 93 per cent pass completion rate and led the attacking play with 170 passes completed in the final third of the pitch.

The champions’ club

As if that weren’t enough, this World Cup title places Rodri in an exclusive group of footballers.

The midfielder became only the seventh player in history to win the Champions League, the World Cup and the ‘Ballon d'Or’ during his career.

The Spaniard thus joins the ranks of the following legends:

  • Franz Beckenbauer

  • Gerd Müller

  • Zinedine Zidane

  • Rivaldo

  • Ronaldinho

  • Lionel Messi

  • Rodri Hernández

In the history of Spanish football

In this way, Rodri Hernández’s performance at the 2026 World Cup reaffirms his status as one of the world’s best in his position.

The 30-year-old footballer overcame physical setbacks, broke statistical records and was the driving force behind the Spanish national team.

His ability to control the game was crucial in defeating Argentina and securing the World Cup title.

From now on, his legacy will be the stuff of legend in Spanish football.