Ronwen Williams, a legendary figure in Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns, has shared his enthusiasm for his nomination for the CAF Footballer of the Year, labeling it an incredible achievement for someone who faced adversity during his upbringing in Port Elizabeth.

Williams is nominated alongside prominent players such as Simon Adingra (Côte d’Ivoire), Serhou Guirassy (Guinea), Achraf Hakimi (Morocco), and Ademola Lookman (Nigeria).

On Thursday, the plan was to narrow down the nominees to three, but the CAF faced challenges in making a decision due to the intense competition among the panelists.

This scenario amplifies the anticipation surrounding one of the most fiercely contested awards in history, with five outstanding candidates striving to secure their legacy in African football.

The 2024 CAF Awards ceremony is set to take place at the Palais des Congrès in Morocco on Monday, commencing at 19:00 local time (18:00 GMT/20:00 Cairo time/21:00 East African time).

CAF praised Williams for his remarkable penalty saves during the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Côte d’Ivoire 2023, which were instrumental in South Africa securing the bronze medal.

South Africa achieved key victories, including a triumph over Morocco in the round of 16, and Williams’ exceptional performances in penalty shootouts against Cape Verde and DR Congo played a crucial role. He also played a vital role in South Africa’s qualification for the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Côte d’Ivoire 2025 and received a nomination for FIFA’s Best Goalkeeper in 2024.

The 32-year-old was pivotal in assisting Sundowns in maintaining a joint record low of 11 goals conceded in 30 matches in the South African Premiership, leading The Brazilians to claim their record-extending seventh consecutive domestic league title as well as the African Football League.

“This is an extraordinary personal achievement,” Williams stated, who is also a contender for the CAF Inter-club Player of the Year and CAF Goalkeeper of the Year.

“I couldn’t have achieved this on my own. The number of clean sheets we accumulated last year is a testament to our collective effort.

“We invested considerable time in meetings, analyzing our opponents and identifying their vulnerabilities, which was crucial.

“I take pride in representing South Africa and aspire to inspire the next generation. A person who faced several challenges is now being regarded as one of the top goalkeepers in Africa.

“I hope this opens doors for others to dream big. With the right attitude and determination, greatness can be attained. I have persevered throughout my career, and now I am enjoying the fruits of my labor.

“It’s truly remarkable and amazing. The coach (Miguel Cardoso) can attest to how excited our WhatsApp group was (on Thursday). Everyone is feeling joyful and eager.

“I’m privileged to be among the best. For me, being nominated alongside world-class players, as a goalkeeper from Port Elizabeth, South Africa, is significant.

“This inspires me to keep believing, pushing forward, and motivating South Africans to achieve and excel at that level.”

The winner will succeed Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen, who is not part of this year’s nominations.

If Williams wins, he will make history as the first South African to claim the CAF Footballer of the Year title.