The recognition of a South African footballer by FIFA, especially one competing in the Premier Soccer League (PSL), highlights the quality and global respect earned by the local league. This acknowledgment reinforces the PSL’s position as one of Africa’s most competitive football competitions.
Ronwen Williams, captain of Bafana Bafana and goalkeeper for Mamelodi Sundowns, has been shortlisted among 22 goalkeepers worldwide for the prestigious FIFA Best Men’s Goalkeeper award.
He will face competition from global icons such as:
Other African goalkeepers nominated include Senegal’s Edouard Mendy and Morocco’s Yassine Bounou. Notably, Andre Onana did not make the list.
Williams' nomination follows an exceptional year where he led Mamelodi Sundowns to the CAF Champions League and competed in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. This recognition affirms his status as one of Africa’s most dependable and consistent goalkeepers.
FIFA described the selection period for nominees and explained how fans can vote in the various categories.
Author’s summary: Ronwen Williams’ FIFA nomination underscores his elite status and showcases the growing international respect for South African and African football talent.