Alongside the national pride, it's the players that make each World Cup special.
Let's check out the odds for the Golden Ball (tournament's best player), as well as what to know about the early favorites, as of June 10.
This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners.
If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated.
Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports.
FIFA Player of the Tournament Odds Michael Olise, France: +650 (bet $10 to win $75 total) What to know: He will star alongside Mbappé for France in this edition of the World Cup.
He had 15 goals in 23 starts for Bundesliga champion Bayern Munich this season.
Harry Kane, England: +850 (bet $10 to win $95 total) What to know: Kane won the Golden Boot in Russia in 2018, scoring six goals across the tournament.
He's England's all-time leader in goals scored, and he scored nine goals in seven matches for England in 2025.
Lamine Yamal, Spain: +850 (bet $10 to win $95 total) What to know: The global superstar of the future, Lamal is considered by many to be the next guy to enter the Messi-Ronaldo class.
Kylian Mbappé, France: +850 (bet $10 to win $95 total) What to know: Mbappé finished second to Messi for the Golden Ball in 2022, but did win the Golden Boot in Qatar, after scoring eight goals in the tournament.
Lionel Messi, Argentina: +1100 (bet $10 to win $120 total) What to know: In the history of the World Cup, the Golden Ball has been awarded 11 times and Messi is the only player who has won it twice: 2014 (Brazil) and 2022 (Qatar).
Vini Jr., Brazil: +1400 (bet $10 to win $150 total) What to know: The Brazilian superstar had a goal and two assists in his first World Cup back in 2022 in Qatar.
Watch FIFA World Cup 2026: All 104 games on FOX One.
Start your free trial today.
Sources: Fox Sports
