Zinedine Zidane named the best player

July 10, 2006

The retiring French football star Zinedine Zidane has been awarded the 's. Zidane secured 2,012 votes, narrowly beating Italian captain, who secured 1,977.

When Zidane headbutted Materazzi in the final match, it was expected that Zidane would not win the award because of the shameful incident.

German striker won the  for the most goals. Klose scored five goals in the tournament, besting the second highest goal scorer by two goals. Klose's strike partner, had won the best young player award of the tournament.

Italy's goalkeeper won the best goalkeeper award, while Portugal were named the most entertaining team in the tournament.