The Iconic Golden Ball Trophy: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Auction Experience

The 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 a Golden Ball is put up for auction, and while its true value remains unknown, it is expected to fetch millions of dollars.

Maradona received this prestigious award after leading Argentina to victory in Mexico, scoring five goals in total. This tournament is remembered for his performance against England in the quarterfinals, where he scored two iconic goals. The first 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 scored two goals in the semifinal against Belgium and ultimately led Argentina to a thrilling 3-2 victory in the final against West Germany. The Golden Ball award was introduced during the 1982 World Cup and has been won by notable players such as Italy’s Paolo Rossi, Brazil’s Romario and Ronaldo, and France’s Zinedine Zidane. Lionel Messi of Argentina remains the only player to have won the award twice.

Reports from French newspaper L’Equipe suggest that Maradona’s original Golden Ball trophy had been stolen but has since resurfaced among several trophy lots in an auction room. The trophy was verified by Aguttes after an investigation into its authenticity, confirming that it is indeed Maradona’s Adidas Golden Ball trophy.