Modric led the rankings with 272 points, leaving behind Barcelona's Lionel Messi with 128 points and Chelsea midfielder Eden Hazard with 114 points.
IFFHS associates from 90 countries took part in the voting.
Modric got the award after winning UEFA's Best Player of the Year Award and FIFA's 'The Best.' He was also first on GOAL 50's annual list, and is the main favourite to win the 2018 Ballon d'Or.