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Kylian Mbappe officially sealed his place as the 2026 FIFA World Cup Golden Boot winner with his goal in France's third-place playoff match with England. Mbappe's prolific goal-scoring prowess is not in question, but the outcome has sparked a discussion about whether the tournament's top scorer should be determined in a game involving two teams that have been eliminated.
Former U.S. international Taylor Twellman was one of those who wondered about the current format, saying the rule should be reconsidered as the World Cup keeps growing.
Mbappe-Messi Golden Boot Twist
Twellman, who spoke after the tournament, admitted that the third-place playoff was still of financial significance for France, but wondered if it should also be a factor in an individual award such as the Golden Boot.
The former USMNT player said, "I find it interesting that the Golden Boot is decided by a game between two teams that have been eliminated."
He continued: "England and France played for essentially $2.5 million in prize money. That's nothing to sneeze at. It's real money. However, all I'm saying is the Golden Boot is decided on a game where two teams were eliminated."
In a clarification statement, he added, "I'm not saying it because I love Messi. It has nothing to do with that."
Should FIFA Change the Golden Boot Rule?
Twellman said his focus was on consistency, not the eventual winner. He said, "It does feel a little odd."
Twellman said he would like to see FIFA rethink the use of the consolation match statistics for the Golden Boot in future tournaments. The former soccer star said, "The Golden Boot race cannot be decided on a game where two teams have been eliminated."
For now, FIFA's rules remain unchanged, meaning Mbappé's Golden Boot stands. However, Twellman's remarks have reignited debate on whether one of the sport's most individual accolades should remain based on a game played after both sides have missed the final.
