World Cup Golden Ball: Neymar looks the best bet to be crowned best player at Russia 2018
The biggest stars in football are battling not only for World Cup glory but also to leave a lasting legacy by being named the best player in the tournament
THE World Cup may be the ultimate team prize – but the Golden Ball is the individual award every player wants to get their mitts on.
Some of the greats of football history have been voted the best player at past finals - including one Englishman in the shape of Bobby Charlton in 1966.
Pele was just 17 when he announced his arrival to the world, in 1958, but it was Brazil team-mate Didi who won the award in Sweden.
It was in 1970 when Pele finally collected the trophy, and Johan Cruyff was a more than worthy winner four years later.
Another of the greatest players in history took the prize in 1986, with Diego Maradona deservedly winning the vote after leading Argentina to glory.
Yet a couple of the past winners might raise eyebrows with some of the younger generation, with Germany goalkeeper Oliver Khan in 2002 and Diego Forlan in 2010 surprising names on the list.
This year's tournament in Russia brings together some of the biggest superstars in the world game - and all will be wanting to leave a lasting legacy.
Lionel Messi pocketed the accolade in 2014 despite Argentina’s defeat in the final, and his record on big occasions has to be respected.
The Barcelona maestro is 9/1 with Betway to retain his crown this summer.
Yet he is still not the favourite for the Golden Ball, a position taken by his former Barca team-mate Neymar, with Brazil also the bookies’ favourites for the trophy.
The Paris Saint-Germain star is the most expensive player on the planet, and living up to his billing by claiming the Golden Ball is 8/1 with Betway.
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France star Antoine Griezmann was the top scorer at Euro 2016, and is 14/1 to shine brightest over the next month.
Cristiano Ronaldo is only fourth favourite at 16/1, while Neymar’s Brazilian compatriot Philippe Coutinho is a long shot at 33/1 - all with Betway.
Have a Cheeky Little Punt…
DIAMOND: Neymar to win the Golden Ball, 8/1 with Betway.
NEXT BEST: Antoine Griezmann to win the Golden Ball, 14/1 with Betway.
LONG SHOT: Philippe Coutinho to win the Golden Ball, 33/1 with Betway
18+ only, T&Cs apply. Odds subject to change.