Achraf Hakimi Makes History: Wins 2025 CAF Men’s Player of the Year — First Defender to Claim Award in 52 Years

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Football history was made on Monday night as Achraf Hakimi was crowned the 2025 CAF Men’s Player of the Year, becoming the first defender since 1973 to win Africa’s highest individual football honor.

The award ceremony, held at the Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, marked a landmark moment for Morocco and African football at large.

Hakimi, who finished as runner-up for the award in both 2023 and 2024, finally clinched the title after an extraordinary season with Paris Saint-Germain. His trophy-packed campaign included victories in the UEFA Champions League, Ligue 1, Coupe de France, Trophée des Champions, and the UEFA Super Cup.

Beyond his club success, he was instrumental in leading Morocco to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, becoming the first African nation to do so.

Despite sustaining an injury and arriving on a knee scooter, the Moroccan star attended the ceremony in person, receiving a standing ovation as he accepted the award.

His determination to be present added emotional weight to a moment fans described as “long overdue.”

The night belonged entirely to Morocco, which dominated the CAF Awards across multiple categories. Ghizlane Chebbak was named Women’s Player of the Year, Yassine Bounou secured the Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year trophy for the second time, and the Morocco U20 national team won National Team of the Year.

The sweeping victories underscore Morocco’s growing influence in African football as the nation gears up to host the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Analysts say Hakimi’s historic win signals a shift in CAF recognition—celebrating not only attacking flair but elite defensive excellence.

Hakimi’s triumph cements his legacy as one of the greatest African defenders of his generation and stands as a monumental achievement for a player whose impact continues to redefine modern full-back football.