Ronwen Williams, the acclaimed goalkeeper for Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns, has made history by becoming the first South African ever nominated for the Yashin Trophy at the 2024 Ballon d’Or awards. This prestigious accolade, named after the legendary Russian goalkeeper Lev Yashin, recognizes the world’s top goalkeepers.
Williams’ exceptional performances over the past year have earned him this landmark nomination. In the 2023/24 season, he was instrumental in Mamelodi Sundowns’ victories in both the inaugural African Football League and the Premier Soccer League. His impressive statistics include 46 appearances, 30 clean sheets, and only 19 goals conceded, solidifying his reputation as one of Africa’s premier goalkeepers.
On the international stage, Williams showcased his skills at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, where he played a pivotal role in securing Bafana Bafana’s third-place finish. His remarkable penalty-saving ability during the tournament earned him the Goalkeeper of the Tournament award.
The Yashin Trophy nomination places Williams among an elite group of goalkeepers, including Emiliano Martínez of Aston Villa, Diogo Costa of FC Porto, and Gianluigi Donnarumma of Paris Saint-Germain. The winner will be announced on October 28 during the Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris.
Despite being sidelined by an injury, Williams remains a standout figure in football, aiming to make history by becoming the first South African to win the Yashin Trophy.
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