Bafana Bafana goalkeeper Ronwen Williams has made history by earning a nomination for the prestigious Yashin Trophy at the upcoming Ballon d’Or Awards.
Story Summary:
- Ronwen Williams is nominated for the Yashin Trophy, recognising the world’s best goalkeeper.
- Williams’ standout performance at AFCON 2023 played a significant role in his nomination.
- The Yashin Trophy winner will be announced on 28 October 2024, in Paris.
Ronwen Williams up for Yashin Trophy at Ballon d’Or Awards
The Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana star joins elite company alongside Argentina’s Emiliano Martínez and Portugal’s Diogo Costa, a historic moment for both Williams and South African football.
The 32-year-old’s nomination comes after an exceptional 2023-24 season, during which he helped his club win the African Football League and the Premier Soccer League title.
However, it was his remarkable performance at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2023 that truly set him apart on the global stage.
The Yashin Trophy, named after legendary Soviet goalkeeper Lev Yashin, will be awarded at the Ballon d’Or ceremony on 28 October 2024, in Paris.
Should Williams win, he would become the first South African goalkeeper to receive this honour.
The AFCON saves that placed Williams in the ranks of history
Ronwen Williams’ performance at AFCON 2023 was nothing short of extraordinary.
His heroics in the tournament helped South Africa secure an impressive third-place finish, marking their best result since 2000.
Williams earned the tournament’s Best Goalkeeper award, solidifying his place among Africa’s elite shot-stoppers.
One of Williams’ most memorable moments came in the AFCON quarterfinal match against Cape Verde, which ended in a 0–0 draw after extra time.
In the penalty shootout, Williams saved four penalties, singlehandedly taking Bafana Bafana to their first AFCON semi-final in 24 years.
Reflecting on his achievement, Williams said:
“It was a moment I will never forget. I felt the weight of the nation on my shoulders, and I was determined to deliver.”
Although South Africa narrowly lost to Nigeria in the semi-finals via another penalty shootout, Williams’ consistent brilliance throughout the tournament did not go unnoticed.
His key saves and leadership on the field made him a standout figure and a deserving nominee for the Yashin Trophy.
