Achraf Hakimi Makes History as Morocco Wins African Footballer of the Year in 28 Years

Achraf Hakimi has written his name in African football history after being crowned the 2024 African Footballer of the Year, becoming the second Moroccan player ever to win the prestigious award. His victory marks a significant milestone for Morocco, coming 28 years after Mustapha Hadji last claimed the honor in 1998. For Moroccan football fans, this triumph is not just about an individual achievement it is a national celebration that highlights the country’s rising presence on the global football stage.

Hakimi’s outstanding performances for both Paris Saint-Germain and the Moroccan national team throughout the year earned him widespread recognition. Known for his explosive pace, attacking flair, and defensive intelligence, Hakimi has grown to become one of the best right-backs in world football. His influence extends far beyond club football, as he played a crucial role in Morocco’s historic World Cup and Africa Cup of Nations campaigns, inspiring many young African footballers across the continent.

The African Footballer of the Year award has long been dominated by legends from football powerhouses such as Cameroon, Nigeria, and Ghana. Over the years, several iconic players have collected multiple titles, underscoring the competitive nature of the award. Samuel Eto’o and Yaya Touré remain the most successful, each winning the award an impressive four times. Liberian great George Weah, the only African to ever win the Ballon d’Or, earned the honor three times, as did Ghana’s legendary Abedi Ayew Pelé.

When examining the award by nationality, Cameroon leads the rankings with 11 total wins, thanks to stars like Eto’o and Roger Milla. Nigeria follows with 7 awards, while Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire each have 6 wins. Hakimi’s latest triumph pushes Morocco to 5 total awards, reinforcing the nation’s growing influence in African football. Senegal completes the list of top achievers with 4 wins, driven in recent years by stars such as Sadio Mané.

Hakimi’s recognition serves as both a personal achievement and a symbol of Morocco’s footballing evolution. It highlights the impact of the country's investments in youth development, infrastructure, and coaching over the past decade. The award also serves as motivation for the next generation of Moroccan players striving to follow in his footsteps.

As the continent celebrates Hakimi’s historic win, it is clear that African football continues to evolve, rising in global competitiveness and producing world-class talent season after season. Hakimi’s victory is not just a milestone for Morocco but a reminder of Africa’s remarkable football heritage and bright future.