Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi has been crowned the 2025 African Footballer of the Year at the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Awards, capping a memorable night for the host nation.
The 27-year-old right-back emerged victorious over Egypt captain Mohamed Salah and Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen after helping Paris St-Germain win the French league title and secure their first-ever Champions League trophy.
Hakimi, who had previously missed out on the top prize in 2023 and 2024, is the first Moroccan to win the award since Mustapha Hadji in 1998.
Morocco’s dominance continued on the women’s side as captain Ghizlane Chebbak claimed the Women’s Player of the Year award. She narrowly beat Nigeria captain Rasheedat Ajibade and fellow Atlas Lionesses teammate Sanaa Mssoudy.
CAF’s winners are chosen by a panel that includes members of its technical committee, African media professionals, players, and coaches.
Hakimi eyes Afcon glory despite injury
Hakimi’s award comes amid a race to be fit for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on home soil. He suffered ankle ligament damage earlier this month in a Champions League tie with Bayern Munich but made a determined appearance on stage to collect his award, carefully avoiding weight on his injured left foot.
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Reflecting on the honour, Hakimi said:
“It’s really an honour for me to win this prestigious trophy. This trophy is not just for me – it is for all the Africans that have dreams.”
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Looking ahead to the continental tournament, he added:
“We will do our best to win the Afcon trophy. I’d like to thank my physiotherapists and those that support me in this difficult period.”
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Hakimi has also played a central role in promoting this year’s finals, as Morocco aims to win its first Africa Cup of Nations since 1976.
