The iconic Golden Ball trophy awarded to Diego Maradona for being named the best player at the 1986 World Cup is set to be auctioned in France on June 6. This will be the first time that a Golden Ball has ever been put up for sale, and while its true value is yet to be determined, it’s expected to fetch millions of dollars.
Maradona, who tragically passed away in 2020, led Argentina to victory in Mexico and scored five goals in total. One of his most memorable performances came against England in the quarterfinals, where he scored two iconic goals. The first goal was famously known as the “Hand of God” goal, where he outjumped the England goalkeeper using his hand. The second goal was a brilliant solo run from his own half, bypassing five English outfield players, and was later named the “Goal of the Century.”
Following his success against England, Maradona went on to score two more goals in the semifinal against Belgium before leading Argentina to a thrilling 3-2 victory over West Germany in the final. The Golden Ball award was introduced during the 1982 World Cup and has since become one of the most prestigious awards given out in world soccer. Notable players such as Italy’s Paolo Rossi, Brazil’s Romario and Ronaldo have won it multiple times alongside Lionel Messi of Argentina who remains the only player to have won it twice.
Reports suggest that Maradona’s original Golden Ball trophy had been stolen but has since resurfaced among several trophy lots in an auction room. After thorough investigations into its authenticity by Aguttes auction house confirmed that it is indeed Maradona’s Adidas Golden Ball trophy.
