Salem Aldawsari: Twice AFC Player of the Year by 2025

Segment Spotlight: Quick Hits From The Contenders

Salim Al-Dossari: A Beacon of Excellence in Asian Football

The landscape of football in Asia has reached unprecedented heights, with national teams entering global competitions ranked in the top 25 according to FIFA. This surge in quality is largely seen in the Middle East, particularly with the Saudi Pro League's significant uptake in investment, attracting top global talent. Consequently, winning the AFC Player of the Year has become an even more prestigious and challenging feat.

Salim Al-Dossari, a standout player from Saudi Arabia, has proven his exceptional skill by securing the AFC Player of the Year title in 2025. This accolade marks his second time receiving this honor in four years, an achievement only shared with three other players in history. His consistent performance for Al Hilal and the Saudi national team has earned him widespread recognition. Moreover, his role was pivotal in Saudi Arabia's qualification for the 2026 World Cup, where he will make his third consecutive appearance.

Al-Dossari's football journey includes memorable World Cup moments, like his late winning goal against Egypt in 2018 and a victory against Argentina in 2022, one of the biggest upsets in the tournament's history. Despite his individual successes, Al-Dossari emphasizes the importance of team achievements and the collective goal of excelling on the world stage.

Throughout his career at Al Hilal, Al-Dossari has demonstrated leadership and scoring prowess, helping his team win six Saudi Pro League titles and two AFC Champions League titles. His technical skills, combined with a powerful right foot, make him a formidable force on the field. As he prepares to lead Saudi Arabia in the 2026 World Cup, there is a clear shift from past underdog status to a champion’s confidence, reflecting his and the team’s readiness for global competition.