Achraf Hakimi Named 2025 African Footballer of the Year

Achraf Hakimi, the distinguished defender for Paris Saint-Germain, was awarded the title of 2025 African Footballer of the Year at a ceremony held in Rabat on Wednesday.

The Morocco international topped the voting, surpassing notable contenders including Liverpool and Egypt superstar Mohamed Salah, as well as Nigeria’s Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen, who completed the podium.

Upon receiving the award, Hakimi expressed, “It is truly a proud moment for me to win this prestigious award. This trophy is not just for me, but for all the strong men and women who aspire to be footballers in Africa. I extend my gratitude to those who believed in me since my childhood, envisioning that I would one day become a professional footballer. Thank you all.”

Hakimi’s remarkable season culminated in five trophies with PSG, including the club’s first-ever Champions League title, marking a significant milestone in his career.

He acknowledged the honor as a culmination of years of hard work, success, and unforgettable experiences, stating, “My gratitude goes out to my family, my teammates, and everyone who collaborates with me daily, both on and off the field. Your trust, dedication, and support empower me to become stronger and foster my growth.”

The PSG fullback played a pivotal role in the Champions League final, where he scored the opening goal in a memorable 5-0 victory against Inter Milan in May.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino and CAF President Patrice Motsepe presented Hakimi with the award, a remarkable achievement for a defender, the first since Zaire’s (now DR Congo) center-back Bwanga Tshimen received it in 1973.

In a historic moment, midfielder Ghizlane Chebbak was recognized as the first Moroccan woman to win the African Footballer of the Year award, taking the top prize ahead of her compatriot Sanaa Mssoudy and Nigeria’s Rasheedat Ajibade.

Additionally, Coach of the Year honors went to Bubista for successfully leading Cape Verde to their first-ever qualification for the 2026 World Cup.