Rabat: Moroccan right-back Achraf Hakimi, who plays for Paris Saint-Germain, was elected African Ballon d'Or winner on Wednesday evening in Rabat, surpassing Egyptian Mohamed Salah and Nigerian Victor Osimhen.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the prestigious accolade was influenced by Hakimi's outstanding season, marked by a European Championship (Champions League) title win with Paris Saint-Germain and notable performances with the Moroccan national team, the Atlas Lions, in various competitions. This success sees Hakimi succeed Nigerian Loukman Ademola, the previous year's winner.

The awards ceremony in the Moroccan capital also recognized several other top performers in African football, celebrating achievements in both the men's and women's categories. The African Ballon d'Or, organized annually by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), stands as the highest individual honor from the continent's supreme football governing body, acknowledging African players who have distinguished themselves throughout the season.