Moroccan full-back Achraf Hakimi has been awarded the 2025 African Footballer of the Year title by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
The Paris Saint-Germain standout outperformed Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah and Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen to become the first defender to claim the honour since former TP Mazembe and Zaire centre-back Bwanga Tshimen back in 1973.
The player is additionally the first Moroccan to secure Africa’s most prestigious individual prize since midfielder Mustapha Hadji achieved the feat in 1998.
“It is really a proud moment for me to win this prestigious award,” Hakimi said in his acceptance speech.
“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.”
Hakimi rounded off an extraordinary 2025 by lifting the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, French Ligue 1, and Coupe de France titles, while also guiding his club to the final of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
He likewise played a pivotal role as Morocco earned qualification for the 2026 World Cup to be hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.
A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.
Nnamdi Okoli