PARIS (AP) — Raymond Kopa, a former Real Madrid attacking midfielder known as the "Napoleon of football" who became the first French player to win the Ballon d'Or, has died. He was 85.
According to family members who spoke to local newspaper Le Courrier de l'Ouest, Kopa died Friday morning after being hospitalized last week. The French soccer federation also confirmed his death.
French President Francois Hollande said Kopa was "one of the most admired sportsmen in France."
Small in stature like the French emperor, Kopa earned the "Napoleon" nickname after an incredible performance with France in a 2-1 win over Spain in 1955.