CAF Awards: Complete list of women’s Player of the Year winners from 2001 to date

In 2001, nearly a decade after the introduction of the Men’s Player of the Year, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Awards unveiled a women’s category to honor Africa’s top female footballers.

Since then, it has become the most coveted individual accolade in women’s football on the continent, though it has often been dominated by Nigeria due to the nation’s sustained excellence in the sport.

Over the years, the award has spotlighted extraordinary talent, with Nigeria’s Asisat Oshoala being the record-holder, claiming the prize an unprecedented six times.

CAF Awards: Complete list of women’s Player of the Year winners from 2001 to date — Photo by IMAGO

This article takes us through the award's history, highlighting its most celebrated winners, and providing a comprehensive list of honorees.

History of the CAF Awards: Women’s Player of the Year

CAF established the African Women’s Player of the Year Award in 2001 to honor the best female footballer on the continent.

It marked a significant step toward recognizing the contributions of women to African football, celebrating their exceptional performances at both the club and international levels.

Since its creation, the award has been pivotal in amplifying the profiles of female African footballers, many of whom have gone on to achieve global recognition.

Players such as Mercy Akide, who won the inaugural award, and Alberta Sackey, the first Ghanaian recipient in 2002, set the tone for future generations.

Who has won the CAF Player of the Year (Women) Award multiple times?

Several players have etched their names in CAF Awards history with multiple wins.

Asisat Oshoala: Six-time champion

Nigeria’s Asisat Oshoala is the undisputed queen of African football. The Barcelona Femeni forward has claimed the African Women’s Player of the Year award a record six times (2014, 2016, 2017, 2019, 2022, 2023), sealing her place among the continent’s all-time greats.

Known for her blistering pace, technical skill, and clinical finishing, Oshoala has consistently delivered stellar performances for both club and country.

Her success with clubs across Europe, Asia and her pivotal role in Nigeria’s national team have made her an iconic figure in African football.

Perpetua Nkwocha: Four-time winner

Before Oshoala’s dominance, Nigeria’s Perpetua Nkwocha set the CAF Awards benchmark for women's football, winning the award four times (2004, 2005, 2010, 2011).

The former Super Falcons star was a pivotal figure for both club and country, playing a crucial role in Nigeria's multiple Women’s Africa Cup of Nations triumphs during her era.

Other multiple winners

Several other players have made their mark on the award’s history. Nigeria’s Cynthia Uwak claimed back-to-back titles in 2006 and 2007, while South Africa’s Thembi Kgatlana and Ghanaian icons such as Alberta Sackey and Adjoa Bayor have also earned the prestigious accolade.