Afif joins Saudi Arabia’s Salem Al-Dawsari and Malaysia’s rising star Arif Aiman in the three-man lineup for the men’s award.

The reigning Asian Player of the Year and 2019 winner, Afif is aiming to make history by becoming the first player to claim the title three times. His achievements have not only brought pride to Qatar but also underscored the growing stature of football talent in Asia. The winner will be announced at a gala ceremony in Riyadh on October 16, a night that promises to celebrate the finest talent the continent has to offer.

Al-Dawsari, representing Al-Hilal and already a former winner in 2022, seeks to lift the award for a second time, reflecting his consistent performances and leadership on the field. Meanwhile, Johor Darul Ta’zim winger Arif Aiman makes history as the first Malaysian ever nominated, a milestone that highlights the expanding influence of Southeast Asian football and the rise of young talent in the region.

In the women’s category, Asia’s best players are also being celebrated. Australian Holly McNamara, China’s Wang Shuang, and Japan’s defender Hana Takahashi have been nominated, showcasing the depth and diversity of talent in women’s football across the continent. Their recognition reinforces the AFC’s commitment to promoting both men’s and women’s football and inspiring a new generation of players.

The AFC’s International Player of the Year Award also draws global attention, with South Korea’s Lee Kang-in, fresh from a UEFA Champions League victory with Paris Saint-Germain, joining Iran’s Mehdi Taremi and Japan’s Takefusa Kubo on the shortlist. These players exemplify the impact of Asian talent on the world stage, bridging domestic success with international acclaim.

As Asia’s football stars prepare for the AFC Awards, the nominations reflect a dynamic and vibrant football ecosystem, celebrating excellence, leadership, and inspiring performances across the region. For Akram Afif, Al-Dawsari, Arif Aiman, and their peers, the shortlist is both a recognition of past achievements and a motivation to continue elevating Asian football to new heights.