Spain claimed their first World Cup title since 2010 and dominated the post-tournament awards, with Rodri, Pau Cubarsi, and Unai Simon all receiving individual honours.
Rodri was awarded the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player after captaining Spain to the championship.
Some observers argued the decision lacked sensitivity, noting that Lionel Messi delivered a standout performance in what is likely his final World Cup.
Messi finished as the second-best player, scoring eight goals and providing four assists across the tournament.
Critics contended that while Rodri is a quality player, Messi was the defining figure of the competition, captivating global audiences with his performances at the age of 39.
It was argued that awarding the Golden Ball to a midfielder who recorded no goals or assists overlooked the decisive impact of goalscorers in the tournament.
Kylian Mbappe received the Bronze Ball and the Golden Boot, finishing with ten goals, two of which came in the third-place play-off against England.
Several former players questioned whether goals scored in the consolation match should count toward the Golden Boot, citing the match's low competitive intensity.
They argued that Messi's goals against stronger opposition in the knockout stage were more significant and deserved greater weight.
Cubarsi and Simon earned the Young Player and Golden Glove awards respectively, completing Spain's sweep of individual prizes.
Following Argentina's run to the final, prominent former players praised Messi's influence, describing his tournament as extraordinary despite the defeat.
Observers noted that Messi carried his team with moments of brilliance while also showing vulnerability, underscoring his unique stature in the sport.
