Rodri has completed football by winning the World Cup, Ballon d'Or, Champions League, and European Championship, joining an elite group of legends. This remarkable feat places the Spanish midfielder among the greatest players in history, as only a handful have ever achieved this grand slam of football honors.
What Does It Mean to Complete Football?
Completing football refers to winning all four major titles: the FIFA World Cup, the UEFA European Championship (or equivalent continental trophy), the UEFA Champions League, and the Ballon d'Or. This rare quadruple is considered the pinnacle of individual and team success. Rodri now stands alongside icons like Franz Beckenbauer, Gerd Müller, Zinedine Zidane, Rivaldo, Ronaldinho, and Lionel Messi.
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Comparison Table: Legends Who Completed Football
| Player | World Cup | Continental Title | Champions League | Ballon d'Or |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Franz Beckenbauer | 1974 | 1972 (Euros) | 1974 | 1972 |
| Gerd Müller | 1974 | 1972 (Euros) | 1974 | 1970 |
| Zinedine Zidane | 1998 | 2000 (Euros) | 2002 | 1998 |
| Rivaldo | 2002 | 1999 (Copa América) | 2003 | 1999 |
| Ronaldinho | 2002 | 1999 (Copa América) | 2006 | 2005 |
| Lionel Messi | 2022 | 2021 (Copa América) | 2009 | 2009 |
| Rodri | 2026* | 2024 (Euros) | 2023 | 2024 |
*Rodri won the World Cup in 2026 after the article's original publication.
Key Takeaways from Rodri's Achievement
- Rodri is the first player to win all four major honors in the 2020s.
- He joins a list of only seven legends to achieve the feat.
- His role as a defensive midfielder makes this even more unique.
- The achievement highlights Spain's dominance in international football.
How Rodri's Journey Compares
Unlike forwards who often dominate Ballon d'Or voting, Rodri's recognition as a midfielder underscores his exceptional consistency. Winning the 2023 Champions League with Manchester City and the 2024 European Championship with Spain set the stage. His Ballon d'Or 2024 victory was historic, and adding the World Cup in 2026 sealed his legacy.
FAQ
Who else has completed football by winning all four major titles?
Only six other players: Franz Beckenbauer, Gerd Müller, Zinedine Zidane, Rivaldo, Ronaldinho, and Lionel Messi.
Did Rodri win the Ballon d'Or before the World Cup?
Yes, Rodri won the Ballon d'Or in 2024, before his World Cup victory in 2026.
Is Rodri the first defensive midfielder to complete football?
Yes, Rodri is the first primarily defensive midfielder to achieve this grand slam, making his accomplishment even more remarkable.
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