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Tracking the Top Scorers in the 2026 World Cup Golden Boot Race

The 2026 World Cup is in full swing across North America, with major soccer powers aiming to dethrone reigning champions Argentina. Since Brazil's back-to-back titles ended in 1962, no team has repeated as world champions. The Golden Boot competition looks wide open this year.

Several of the world’s top forwards are competing, alongside a couple of legendary figures. The tournament also offers a stage for emerging talents to shine and claim their place among football's best.

Favorites to Claim the Golden Boot

The following players have the best odds according to DraftKings Sportsbook:

  • Kylian Mbappe (France) +600
  • Harry Kane (England) +700
  • Mikel Oyarzabal (Spain) +1100
  • Erling Haaland (Norway) +1400
  • Lionel Messi (Argentina) +1600
  • Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal) +2000
  • Lamine Yamal (Spain) +2200
  • Julian Alvarez (Argentina) +2200
  • Raphinha (Brazil) +2500
  • Ousmane Dembele (France) +2500
  • Michael Olise (France) +3000
  • Vinicius Junior (Brazil) +3000
  • Kai Havertz (Germany) +3000
  • Lautaro Martinez (Argentina) +3500

Looking Back: 2022 Golden Boot Winner

Kylian Mbappe made history by becoming the first player since Geoff Hurst in 1966 to score a hat-trick in a World Cup final. He also converted his penalty in the shootout after a thrilling 3-3 draw against Argentina. Despite France falling just short, Mbappe earned the Golden Boot, following his four-goal performance in 2018.

History of the Golden Boot at the World Cup

There have been 22 men's World Cup tournaments and each one has seen a different Golden Boot winner. Not all winners were the biggest stars of their time.

Golden Boot Winners Who Also Lifted the World Cup Trophy

Only three players have topped the Golden Boot list while their teams won the tournament. Mario Kempes led Argentina to victory in 1978, scoring twice in the final. Paolo Rossi matched the feat in 1982, helping Italy win the title. Ronaldo was the last to do it in 2002, netting twice in Brazil’s final triumph over Germany.

Ronaldo's eight goals that year were the highest tally in a single World Cup since Gerd Muller scored 10 in 1970.

Players with Most Goals in World Cup History

Only thirteen players have scored ten or more World Cup goals. Thomas Muller is the only active player on this exclusive list heading into the 2022 tournament. Before Qatar, he needed two goals to tie Brazil legend Pele but did not score.

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