A Historic Night for Morocco and Modern Full-Backs

Paris Saint-Germain and Morocco star Achraf Hakimi has officially been crowned African Player of the Year, marking one of the most significant individual achievements of his career and a landmark moment in the history of the CAF Awards. The ceremony, held in Rabat, delivered a powerful celebration of African excellence — and at the heart of it was a defender who has redefined what a modern full-back can be.

Hakimi’s triumph is not just a personal milestone; it is a symbolic victory for an entire generation. In a football landscape where forwards and attacking midfielders traditionally dominate the awards, Hakimi’s win stands out. He becomes the first defender to win the prize in more than half a century, and the first Moroccan to lift the trophy since Mustapha Hadji in 1998. For fans in Morocco, for PSG supporters across the world, and for defenders everywhere, it is a moment loaded with meaning.

A Season That Defined a Legacy

The case for Hakimi’s coronation was undeniable.
Over the past year, he has delivered performances that have placed him among the elite players in world football. His contributions to PSG’s success were immense, especially in a season where the Parisian club finally conquered the long-desired UEFA Champions League title. Hakimi was central to that European triumph, delivering defensive solidity, blistering runs, and even scoring on the biggest stage of all — the Champions League final.

Beyond Europe, Hakimi maintained an astonishing level of consistency across all competitions. His stamina, tactical intelligence, and attacking involvement made him a weapon on both ends of the pitch. Domestically, he helped PSG dominate the French league once again, forming a crucial partnership with both the defensive line and the wingers ahead of him.

For Morocco, Hakimi continued to be the face of a golden generation. His influence extends beyond the pitch: he is a leader, a symbol, and one of the continent’s most inspiring icons, especially after Morocco’s historic World Cup run in 2022. The African Player of the Year award simply affirms what millions already knew — that Hakimi is one of Africa’s greatest ambassadors in global football.

Beating the Best to Claim the Crown

Hakimi’s win did not come lightly.
The final shortlist featured some of the biggest names in African football, including Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah and Nigeria’s prolific forward Victor Osimhen — both household stars, both previous favourites for the award. That Hakimi triumphed over such giants underscores the extraordinary quality he displayed throughout the year.

While forwards typically dominate headlines with goals and assists, Hakimi forced the world to look again at the full-back position. His attacking output matched that of many midfielders, his defensive contributions were essential, and his big-game impact stood unmatched among defenders on the continent.

This award shifts the narrative.
It proves that a defender — especially one as complete as Hakimi — can shape seasons, define finals, and command the global stage.

A Night of Emotion and Inspiration

When Hakimi stepped up to receive the award, the emotion was clear.
In his acceptance speech, he expressed that the honour was bigger than any individual achievement. He dedicated the award to “all the people in Africa who dream of becoming footballers,” acknowledging the countless young players who look to him as a symbol of what is possible.

He thanked his family, teammates, coaches, and supporters from both Morocco and PSG, reflecting on his journey from Europe’s academies to becoming one of Africa’s most celebrated athletes. For Morocco, the award capped off a night of pride, with the country recognised across several categories, highlighting the nation’s rising status in global football.

What This Means for PSG, Morocco, and African Football

For PSG, Hakimi’s success reinforces his importance to the club’s project.
He is not just one of the best defenders in the world; he is a cornerstone of their future, a player capable of lifting major trophies and elevating the team’s level in decisive moments. His global recognition also enhances PSG’s status, showcasing the strength and prestige of their squad.

For Morocco, Hakimi’s win is a reminder of what the country has built over the past decade — a world-class football ecosystem producing world-class talent. He becomes a national hero all over again, strengthening the connection between the national team and fans worldwide.

For African football, the significance is even deeper.
Hakimi’s award challenges the traditional idea that only forwards and attacking creators can be the continent’s top player. It validates the evolution of modern full-backs — players who defend, create, score, and lead. It opens the door for future defenders to be recognised for their value, impact, and excellence.

A New Standard Has Been Set

Achraf Hakimi’s rise has been remarkable, but his latest crown feels perfectly deserved.
He has become the model of the modern defender: fast, technical, intelligent, fearless, and influential on both sides of the pitch. His African Player of the Year award not only recognises a phenomenal season — it reshapes how the continent values different positions in football.

This is more than an award.
It is the celebration of a player who has reached the top of his craft, the acknowledgement of a defender who plays with the heart of a forward, and the story of a Moroccan superstar whose influence continues to transcend borders.

Achraf Hakimi is now officially the King of African Football — and given his trajectory, this may not be the last time he sits on the throne.