His parents also drew a mention. They raised him with values later reinforced at Athletic: respect for authority, a work ethic and staying close to people who love you.
Two years ago he came second to Emi Martinez with 213 points. Last year he was not among the 10 nominees.
Unai Simon, Spain and Athletic Club's number one, became the first Spanish goalkeeper to win the Yashin Trophy. Peter Schmeichel handed him the award, and the room applauded warmly.
He is not an archetypal superstar. He stays away from the headlines and keeps a relatively low profile beside some of the game's other goalkeepers.
The prize lands on a keeper whose place as Spain's number one is regularly questioned, as was the decision to name him the world's best.
Simon has signed a contract to 2029 with no release clause. He said he wanted to be the best goalkeeper in the world as part of Athletic.
He made the position his own. A year later he won the Under-21 European Championship with Spain.
Luis Enrique saw that he could play with his feet and was patient with him. Simon says the rest took a lot of analysis and training and a bit of courage.
The team trusts him so much that they know he will be there when needed. His part in the build-up is how Spain play.
After the tournament, Simon talked about not having had much to do.
Then the world's best goalkeeper spent his time talking about everybody else.
Like Simon, none of them are regulars on the covers of the media.