Moroccan international Achraf Hakimi was crowned the King of African football after winning the prestigious 2025 CAF Player of the Year Award in a glamorous ceremony held at the Mohammed VI Polytechnic University in Rabat.
A Night of Glory for Moroccan Football
The Paris Saint-Germain defender finally claimed the coveted prize on Wednesday night, having been a runner-up in both 2023 and 2024. Hakimi made history by becoming the first Moroccan to win the award since Mustapha Hadji in 1998, ending a 27-year wait for the North African nation.
He secured the top honour ahead of fierce competition from Egypt's Mohamed Salah and Nigeria's Victor Osimhen. His victory comes after an outstanding season where he helped PSG secure the French Ligue 1 title and their first-ever UEFA Champions League trophy.
Family Takes Center Stage
In a move that delighted fans and captured hearts across social media, the 27-year-old footballer chose to share his special moment with his family. Hakimi arrived at the awards ceremony accompanied by his beloved mother, Saida, and his brother, creating a memorable family portrait on the red carpet.
His mother particularly stole the spotlight with her radiant presence, proudly supporting her son as he received African football's highest individual honour. A photograph of the emotional mother-son moment quickly went viral, sparking an outpouring of admiration from football enthusiasts worldwide.
Social Media Erupts with 'Hakimi Theory' Jokes
The sight of Hakimi celebrating with his mother reignited online discussions about the famous 'Hakimi theory' – a reference to the player's financial arrangements that became public during his divorce proceedings.
One social media user, Uchir Philip Sughnen, humorously noted: "The study of wisdom is called Hakimology." Another fan, Jack Jack, suggested: "He might register that award in his mother's name."
The comments continued with Idris Garba writing: "Hakimi's theory states that 'All your money should be in your mother's account.'" Ambrose Onyebuchi even joked that Hakimi's mother "should be awarded Professorship in child management."
Complete Moroccan Dominance
The night proved particularly successful for Moroccan football, with compatriot Ghizlane Chebbak claiming the Women's Player of the Year award. Chebbak surprisingly beat Nigeria captain Rasheedat Ajibade and fellow Atlas Lionesses teammate Sanaa Mssoudy for the top women's honour.
The winners were selected through a comprehensive voting process involving a panel of experts from CAF's technical committee, African media professionals, current players, and coaches.
Personal Life Speculations
Hakimi's appearance with family members sparked curiosity about his personal relationships. The footballer was previously married to Spanish-Tunisian actress Hiba Abouk from February 2020 until their separation in March 2023. The couple, who have two children named Amin and Naim, finalized their divorce after assault allegations emerged against the player in France.
Recent dating rumours had linked Hakimi with Dutch fashion model Imaan Hammam after they were spotted together in New York in July 2025. However, neither party confirmed any romantic involvement, leaving fans to speculate about the nature of their relationship.
Nigerian Presence at the Awards
While Victor Osimhen missed out on the top men's award, Nigerian football still had reason to celebrate. Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie made history by winning the CAF Goalkeeper of the Year award for the third consecutive time. She triumphed over Morocco's Khadija Er-Rmichi and South Africa's Andile Dlamini to secure her place in the record books.
The 2025 CAF Awards ceremony not only celebrated individual excellence but also highlighted the growing strength of African football, with Morocco's double victory signalling their rising dominance on the continental stage.
