The 36-year-old Argentinian did not travel to London on Monday to receive his distinction.
Lionel Messi became the first footballer to win the FIFA Best Men’s Player award three times in a row.
The 36-year-old Argentinian was not present at the awards ceremony in London on Monday; Frenchman Thierry Henry received him on his behalf.
The Spaniard Aitana Bonmati, winner of the last World Cup, won the prize for best player.
On the coaching side, Sarina Wiegman was named best female coach for the second consecutive year and for the fourth time since 2017.
Mary Earps of Manchester United received the award for best female goalkeeper.