In a landmark achievement for Moroccan football, Achraf Hakimi has been named the 2025 CAF Men’s Player of the Year, becoming the first defender in over five decades to claim Africa’s most prestigious individual football honor. The award was presented during a glittering ceremony in Rabat, Morocco, on November 19, 2025.
Hakimi’s recognition follows a phenomenal season with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), where he played a pivotal role in the club’s historic quadruple—securing the UEFA Champions League, Ligue 1, Coupe de France, and UEFA Super Cup titles. His standout performances included scoring the opening goal in PSG’s emphatic 5–0 victory over Inter Milan in the Champions League final, marking the club’s first triumph in the competition.
The Moroccan right-back’s consistent excellence on both defensive and offensive fronts has not only solidified his reputation as one of the world’s elite defenders but also as a key contributor to PSG’s attacking prowess.
Hakimi’s accolade is particularly noteworthy as he becomes the first defender to win the CAF Men’s Player of the Year award since Bwanga Tshimen of Zaire in 1973. He also ends a 27-year wait for Morocco, being the first Moroccan to receive the honor since Mustapha Hadji in 1998.
In his acceptance speech, Hakimi dedicated the award to aspiring footballers across Africa, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and dedication.
The 2025 CAF Awards ceremony was a celebration of Moroccan football excellence. Alongside Hakimi, Ghizlane Chebbak was named the CAF Women’s Player of the Year, recognizing her outstanding contributions to both club and country. Additionally, Yassine Bounou received the Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year award, further highlighting Morocco’s dominance in African football.
These accolades underscore a golden era for Moroccan football, reflecting the nation’s investment in nurturing talent and achieving excellence on the continental stage.
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