Uruguay's Diego Forlan has been named the player of the FIFA World Cup after lighting up South Africa some wonderful goals that helped his team become South America's only semi-finalist.

The striker won legions of admirers for his fantastic play on the pitch and courteous attitude off it where he always made time to sign autographs and chat with fans or journalists.

Forlan took 23.4 per cent in the Golden Ball poll organised by FIFA and voted for by journalists. Dutch playmaker Wesley Sneijder was second with 21.8 per cent and Spain's David Villa third on 16.9 per cent.

All three got five goals, making them joint top scorers along with Germany's Thomas Muller.

Muller took the "Golden Boot" award given to the top scorer, using assists and number of minutes played as a tie breaker, FIFA said in a statement.

The German was also named Best Young Player.

 As well as winning the World Cup, Spain also took the FIFA Fair Play Award. Their captain Iker Casillas won the "Golden Glove" prize for best goalkeeper.

Forlan's award will cheer up Uruguayans after their side lost agonisingly to Germany 3-2 in the third place play-off.

 Forlan struck the bar with a typically spectacular free kick in the last touch of the match.