RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Salem Al-Dawsari has been named Asian Player of the Year for the second time, with Japan’s Hana Takahashi claiming the women’s award at a gala ceremony in Riyadh on Thursday.
Al-Dawsari, who helped his nation secure qualification for a third consecutive World Cup on Tuesday, reclaimed the award he previously won in 2022 ahead of fellow nominees Akram Afif of Qatar and Malaysia’s Arif Aiman.
“I’m grateful to win this award,” said the Al-Hilal playmaker. Winning it for a second time is special because it came after a huge effort.
“Winning titles with my team is better than winning individual awards, but this award is special because it complements our team’s achievements.
“I’m grateful for the support I have received from everyone, the fans, my colleagues in the national team and at my club. This award is for them.”
Al-Dawsari’s win is the seventh time a player from Saudi Arabia has taken the trophy since compatriot Saeed Al-Owairan won the inaugural award in 1994.
Defender Takahashi took the women’s title ahead of Holly McNamara from Australia and China’s Wang Shuang, becoming the sixth different Japanese player to win since China’s Sun Wen won the inaugural award in 1999.
“I’m deeply honored to win this award,” said Takahashi in a video message. “With the Women’s Asian Cup coming up next year, my immediate focus is to work hard to earn selection for the Japan women’s national team.
“I aim to deliver strong results for both the national team and my club, striving to help elevate women’s football across Asia.”
Meanwhile, North Korea’s Ri Song Ho was presented with the Coach of the Year award for leading his country to the Under-20 Women’s World Cup title in Colombia last year.
Paris St. Germain’s South Korean playmaker Lee Kang-in was named International Player of the Year with Maika Hamano of Chelsea and Japan winning the women’s award.
