Achraf Hakimi, a defender for Paris Saint-Germain, was honored as the African Footballer of the Year for 2025 at a gala held in Rabat on Wednesday.
The Moroccan national player received the most votes, followed by Mohamed Salah, the celebrated Liverpool and Egypt player, and Victor Osimhen, the Nigerian striker playing for Galatasaray.
“Winning this celebrated distinction fills me with immense pride,” Hakimi expressed.
“This award is dedicated not only to me, but to all determined individuals, both men and women, across Africa who aspire to a career in football. Also, to those who continuously supported my journey since childhood, believing in my potential to become a professional footballer. My heartfelt thanks to each of them.”
Hakimi enjoyed a remarkable season, lifting five trophies with PSG, highlighted by the club’s first-ever Champions League title.
A recognition that crowns years of hard work, success, and unforgettable moments.
My gratitude goes to my family, my teammates, and everyone who works with me every day, on and off the field. Your trust, dedication, and support make me stronger and allow me to grow.
Thank you… pic.twitter.com/ZssdnZ2T55
— Achraf Hakimi (@AchrafHakimi) November 19, 2025
The PSG fullback played a key role in the final, scoring the opening goal in their dominant 5-0 victory against Inter Milan in May.
Gianni Infantino, the president of FIFA, alongside Patrice Motsepe, the president of CAF, presented Hakimi with the accolade, a noteworthy achievement for a defender, last attained by Bwanga Tshimen, a center-back from Zaire (now DR Congo) in 1973.
Ghizlane Chebbak made history as the first Moroccan woman to clinch the African Footballer of the Year title. She topped the voting ahead of Sanaa Mssoudy, her international teammate, and Rasheedat Ajibade from Nigeria.
Bubista was recognized as Coach of the Year after impressively guiding Cape Verde, an island nation, to their first-ever qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
Contribution from The Associated Press was included within this piece.
