FIFA names 20 youngest players to win World Cup
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- FIFA has released a list of the 20 youngest players to have won the World Cup, highlighting their remarkable achievements at under 21 years old.
- Brazilian legend Pelรฉ tops the list, having won at just 17 years and 249 days, followed closely by fellow Brazilian Ronaldo.
- The list includes notable players like Lamine Yamal, Giuseppe Bergomi, and Kylian Mbappรฉ, showcasing a history of young talent making significant impacts on the world stage.
Winning the FIFA World Cup is the ultimate achievement in international football, but for a select few, this pinnacle has been reached before their 21st birthday. FIFA recently disclosed a list of the 20 youngest players to have lifted the coveted trophy, underscoring the extraordinary impact of youthful talent on the sport's grandest stage.
Leading the prestigious roster is Brazilian football icon Pelรฉ, who achieved this monumental feat at the tender age of 17 years and 249 days. Not far behind is another Brazilian legend, Ronaldo, who secured his World Cup victory at 17 years and 298 days. These early triumphs set a precedent for young players to make history.
The list features a blend of legendary figures and contemporary stars who have etched their names in World Cup history at remarkably young ages. Among them are Italy's Giuseppe Bergomi, a full-back who won at 18 years and 174 days, and Spain's teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, who shares the fourth spot with Brazil's Coutinho, both winning at 19 years and 6 days.
Other notable inclusions showcase the global reach of young talent. Kylian Mbappรฉ of France, a winger and forward, appears on the list having won at 19 years and 207 days. Uruguay's winger Ruben Moran and Italy's forward Felice Borel also feature, highlighting diverse nationalities achieving this milestone.
The compilation serves as a testament to the enduring presence of prodigious talent in World Cup history, from the past to the present. Players like Kaka, Matthias Ginter, Luis Islas, Clodoaldo, David Trezeguet, Julian Draxler, Edu, Thierry Henry, and Uli Biesinger complete the top 20, each having contributed to their nation's success before reaching their early twenties.
Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.