2025 Ballon d’Or: Morocco defender Achraf Hakimi named sixth best player in the world

Moroccan sensation Achraf Hakimi has been named the sixth best player in the world at the 2025 Ballon d’Or ceremony held in Paris on Monday, September 22.

The Paris Saint-Germain full-back, widely regarded as one of the best in his position, enjoyed a remarkable 2024/25 campaign, playing a pivotal role in PSG’s historic treble triumph.

His pace, creativity, and defensive solidity made him indispensable as the French champions lifted the Ligue 1, Coupe de France, and UEFA Champions League titles.

Hakimi’s sixth-place finish places him among the game’s global elite, ahead of household names such as Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappé and Chelsea’s breakout star Cole Palmer.

His ranking also cements his status as one of Africa’s finest footballers on the international stage.

The 2025 Ballon d’Or was awarded to PSG teammate Ousmane Dembélé, who beat Barcelona prodigy Lamine Yamal and Vitinha to the prestigious honour.

Another African, Mohamed Salah from Egypt, also made Africa proud by finishing in fourth place.

Men’s Ballon d’Or Top Ten (2025):

1. Ousmane Dembélé (France, Paris Saint-Germain)
2. Lamine Yamal (Spain, Barcelona)
3. Vitinha (Portugal, Paris Saint-Germain)
4. Mohamed Salah (Egypt, Liverpool)
5. Raphinha (Brazil, Barcelona)
6. Achraf Hakimi (Morocco, Paris Saint-Germain)
7. Kylian Mbappé (France, Real Madrid)
8. Cole Palmer (England, Chelsea)
9. Gianluigi Donnarumma (Italy, Paris Saint-Germain)
10. Nuno Mendes (Portugal, Paris Saint-Germain)