Al Dawsari celebrated as AFC Asian Player of Year for second time

Roshn Saudi League star Salem Al Dawsari has been named Asian Player of the Year once again, the Al Hilal captain claiming the award at the Asian Football Confederation’s gala ceremony in Riyadh on Thursday night.

Al Dawsari, part of the Saudi Arabia side who earlier this week booked their place at next summer’s 2026 FIFA World Cup, emulated his feat from 2022, this time taking the continent’s top individual honour ahead of fellow nominees Akram Afif of Qatar and Malaysia’s Arif Aiman.

“I’m grateful to win this award,” Al Dawsari said. “Winning it for a second time is special because it came after a huge effort.

“Winning titles with my team is better than winning individual awards, but this award is special because it complements our team’s achievements.

“I’m grateful for the support I have received from everyone, the fans, my colleagues in the national team and at my club. This award is for them.”

Al Dawsari’s success makes it the seventh time a player from Saudi Arabia has lifted the trophy since compatriot Saeed Al Owairan won the inaugural prize in 1994.

Al Dawsari, who returns to RSL action with Al Hilal at Al Ettifaq on Saturday, also became only the fourth man to land the honour twice.