Unai Simón Wins Yashin Trophy as World's Best Goalkeeper

Unai Simón won the Yashin Trophy at the Ballon d'Or gala on Monday, becoming the first Spanish goalkeeper to receive the award for the world's best goalkeeper.

The Athletic Club and Spain national team player received the trophy from Peter Schmeichel. He succeeded Italian Gianluigi Donnarumma in the award's roll of honour.

“In football, beyond titles, what truly matters is the legacy one leaves when this ends, being recognized for being good people, good teammates, beyond the triumphs we have.”

Simón won the award after Spain won the World Cup last summer, during which he conceded only one goal in eight matches and won the Golden Glove. He also set a new World Cup unbeaten record of 650 minutes without conceding across seven matches between 2022 and 2026.

He defeated fellow Spaniards Joan Garcia of FC Barcelona and David Raya of Arsenal FC in the voting. Two years ago, Simón finished second in the same award, the year Spain won the European Championship.

In his acceptance speech, Simón said it had been one of the most beautiful summers of their lives. He thanked his parents, sister, and girlfriend, as well as his teammates and coaches.

Simón specifically mentioned Óscar de Marcos, Iñigo Lekue, and Gorka Guruzeta as wonderful people football had given him. He also remembered the late Koldo Asua, who taught him to understand football differently.

He emphasized that beyond titles, what truly matters is the legacy one leaves and being recognized as a good person and teammate.