Environment & Ecology question from JKAS Prelims, 2018 by JKPSC
Which of the following received the Golden Ball award for best player at the 2018 FIFA World Cup?
Last updated May 15, 2026
Correct Answer:
Option D —
Luka Modric
While France won the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, the Golden Ball (awarded to the tournament's best individual player) was given to Croatia's captain, Luka Modric, for his exceptional leadership and performance in taking his team to their first-ever World Cup final.
2018 FIFA World Cup Awards Summary
For competitive exams and general awareness, it is useful to distinguish between the different individual honors awarded at the end of the tournament:
Golden Ball (Best Player): Luka Modric (Croatia)
Golden Boot (Top Scorer): Harry Kane (England) – 6 goals
Golden Glove (Best Goalkeeper): Thibaut Courtois (Belgium)
Best Young Player: Kylian Mbappé (France)
FIFA Fair Play Trophy: Spain
UPSC & Sports (Current Affairs Perspective)
While the UPSC Civil Services Examination traditionally focused less on sports, there has been a noticeable shift since the 2021 Prelims, where specific questions on international sporting events (like the Laureus World Sports Awards and the ICC World Test Championship) were included.
Key areas to monitor for sports-related questions:
Awards with Global Significance: Recognition like the Golden Ball or Laureus Awards often reflects broader themes of sportsmanship or national achievement.
Terminology and Format: Understanding the structure of major tournaments (FIFA, Olympics, Chess Olympiads).
India’s Performance: Any significant Indian milestones in global sports (e.g., Neeraj Chopra’s gold in Athletics or India’s hosting of the G20-related sporting events).
Sports and Diplomacy: The use of sports in international relations (e.g., "Cricket Diplomacy" in South Asia).
Answer verified by Quintessence Classes faculty — Karan Nagar, Srinagar.
