Achraf Hakimi Crowned African Footballer of the Year, Makes History as First Defender in 52 Years

Paris Saint-Germain star and Moroccan international, Achraf Hakimi, has been named the 2025 African Footballer of the Year by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

Hakimi’s triumph marks a historic moment for African football as he is the first defender to claim the prestigious award since Zaire’s Bwanga Tshimen won it in 1973.

The 27-year-old is the first player from Morocco to win the top player prize since midfielder Mustapha Hadji in 1998.

Hakimi secured the accolade by finishing ahead of Liverpool striker Mohamed Salah (Egypt) and Galatasaray forward Victor Osimhen (Nigeria).

The recognition follows a remarkable 2025 season for the right-back, during which he achieved major success for his club and country.

He played a pivotal role in Paris Saint-Germain’s trophy haul, which included the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, French Ligue 1, and the Coupe de France. He also reached the final of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.

Hakimi was a key figure in guiding Morocco to qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.

In his acceptance speech, Hakimi dedicated the award to a wider audience:

“It is really a proud moment for me to win this prestigious award. This trophy is not just for me, but all the strong men and women who have dreams of being a footballer in Africa. And for those that always believed in me since I was a child, that I would be a professional footballer one day. I would like to thank them all.”