Sports
Achraf Hakimi Makes History as First Defender in 52 Years to Win 2025 CAF Men’s Player of the Year
Paris Saint-Germain star Achraf Hakimi has been crowned the 2025 CAF Men’s Player of the Year, becoming the first defender since 1973 to win Africa’s most prestigious individual football award. The Moroccan full-back finally clinched the honour after finishing as runner-up in the previous two editions.
Hakimi’s triumph ends Morocco’s long wait for a male winner since Mustapha Hadji claimed the award in 1998. His recognition comes after an extraordinary season in which he helped PSG secure a remarkable quintuple — the UEFA Champions League, Ligue 1 title, Coupe de France, Trophée des Champions, and the UEFA Super Cup.
Beyond club success, Hakimi also played a pivotal role in Morocco’s landmark qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, becoming the first African nation to book their ticket to the tournament.
Despite sustaining an injury that left him arriving on a knee scooter, the 26-year-old attended the ceremony in person at the Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, drawing admiration from fans and dignitaries.
Morocco swept the night, reaffirming their rising dominance in African football ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, which the nation will host.
• Ghizlane Chebbak won the Women’s Player of the Year award.
• Yassine Bounou secured the Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year honour for the second time.
• The Moroccan U20 team was crowned National Team of the Year.
Hakimi’s historic win underscores the country’s football renaissance and cements his status as one of Africa’s greatest modern defenders.
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