The father of newly crowned 2024 CAF Player of The Year Ademola Lookman has attributed his son’s accomplishment in claiming the 2024 CAF Player of The Year to his humility, focus, and commitment to football.
In a glittering ceremony held on Monday in Marrakech, Morocco, the 27-year-old Nigerian forward was crowned the 2024 CAF African Player of the Year, beating formidable contenders like Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi, Guinea’s Serhou Guirassy, Ivory Coast’s Simon Adingra, and South Africa’s Ronwen Williams.
Taking to the podium to receive his award from FIFA president Gianni Infantino, the England-born forward in his elegant African attire wowed millions of viewers when he addressed everyone in his mother tongue – Yoruba Language – sparking wide reactions from everyone in the hall and beyond.
Speaking with journalist, Calister Enejele, after the event, Lookman’s father expressed his pride and admiration for his son, emphasising the values that have driven him to this level of success.
“I am proud of him as a father because he is a very committed player, he is very humble, he does not like too much publicity, because he really wants to focus on his football. And that is what has taken him to this level,” he said.
Lookman’s year was nothing short of extraordinary. He shone on both the domestic and international stages, showcasing a lethal mix of skill, determination, and composure.
At the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (held in early 2024), Lookman was Nigeria’s standout performer, scoring three vital goals and providing one assist as the Super Eagles stormed to the final. His pivotal performances helped Nigeria remain unbeaten until the final hurdle, where hosts Ivory Coast narrowly triumphed.
Club success followed soon after. Lookman etched his name into European folklore with a hat-trick in the UEFA Europa League final, leading his club, Atalanta, to a stunning 3-0 victory over previously unbeaten Bayer Leverkusen. He became the first African player to score a hat-trick in a major European final, a feat that cemented his place in history.
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