Moroccan and Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi has been crowned the 2025 African Player of the Year, a testament to his exceptional prowess and dominant performances throughout the season.
He claimed the continent’s most prestigious individual football honor ahead of fellow finalists, Egypt’s Mohamed Salah and Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen.
The award recognizes a campaign where Hakimi established himself as the world’s premier right-back, a force revered for his blistering pace, pinpoint crossing, and remarkable defensive resilience.
For his club, Paris Saint-Germain, he was an indispensable asset, contributing crucial goals and assists while being the primary engine on the right flank.
His performances were instrumental in PSG’s domestic success and deep runs in European competition.
Simultaneously, Hakimi was the cornerstone of the Moroccan national team, leading their charge with the same tenacity and skill.
His ability to influence the game at both ends of the pitch, shutting down opponents’ attacks while simultaneously orchestrating his own, made him a unique and game-changing talent.
By consistently delivering for both club and country, Hakimi earned the recognition as Africa’s standout performer, a player whose all-around excellence could not be overlooked
