Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper and Bafana Bafana captain Ronwen Williams has been nominated for the prestigious Ballon d’Or Yachine Trophy, awarded to the world’s best goalkeeper.

The 32-year-old joins an illustrious group of goalkeepers from top European leagues.

Williams’ recognition comes after a standout performance at the Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast, where he was named goalkeeper of the tournament and helped Bafana Bafana secure a bronze medal. He was also crowned the PSL Footballer of the Year last season, becoming only the third goalkeeper to achieve this honor.

Williams is among the top 10 nominees for the Yachine Trophy, alongside Giorgi Mamardashville of Georgia, Ukraine’s Andre Lunin, Italy’s Gianluigi Donnarumma, France’s Mike Maignan, Portugal’s Diogo Costa, Switzerland’s Gregor Kobel and Yann Sommer, Spain’s Unai Simon, and Argentina’s Emiliano Martinez – the 2023 winner, who helped his country to win the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Williams faces stiff competition from goalkeepers playing in Europe’s top leagues, but his nomination is a testament to his exceptional talent and contributions to South African football. The winner of the Ballon d’Or Yachine Trophy, which has been collaborated with UEFA, will be announced on 28 October at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, France.