Ronwen Williams Becomes First African-Based Goalkeeper Nominated for Yashin Trophy, Ranks Ninth Globally

Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana goalkeeper Ronwen Williams made history as the first African-based player to be nominated for the prestigious Ballon d’Or Yashin Trophy. His achievement has taken South Africa by storm, making him the ninth-best goalkeeper in the world—a feat no other keeper on the continent has yet to accomplish.

Williams’ stellar performances in the AFCON tournament, where he set a record as the first goalkeeper to make four saves in a single shootout, were pivotal in securing Bafana Bafana’s third-place finish. His nomination for the Yashin Trophy is a significant milestone, highlighting his exceptional talent both on the national and club levels.

While Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martínez clinched the trophy, some fans voiced their belief that Williams’ ninth-place ranking undervalues his season’s achievements, citing bias against African-based players. Nevertheless, Ronwen’s success is celebrated as a breakthrough moment, offering hope and motivation to African players aiming to compete on the global stage.