As global football stars converge in Paris, Bafana Bafana’s captain, Ronwen Williams, stands ready for a groundbreaking evening, representing South Africa and aiming to clinch the prestigious Yashin Trophy.
On Monday, October 28, Paris will host the much-anticipated 2024 Ballon d’Or gala, where South African goalkeeper Ronwen Williams will be among the elite vying for the Yashin Trophy. As the first South African and Africa-based player ever nominated for a Ballon d’Or award, Williams has already marked an incredible milestone in his career. Now, he hopes to make even more history by being named the world’s best goalkeeper.
The Ronwen Williams’ Challengers for the Yashin Trophy
Williams will face off against a field of goalkeeping stars from around the globe. The full list of nominees includes:
- Diogo Costa (Portugal / FC Porto)
- Gianluigi Donnarumma (Italy / PSG)
- Gregor Kobel (Switzerland / Borussia Dortmund)
- Andriy Lunin (Ukraine / Real Madrid)
- Mike Maignan (France / AC Milan)
- Giorgi Mamardashvili (Georgia / Valencia)
- Emiliano Martinez (Argentina / Aston Villa)
- Unai Simon (Spain / Athletic Bilbao)
- Yann Sommer (Switzerland / Inter Milan)
Each of these goalkeepers has delivered standout performances for club and country, making the competition for this year’s Yashin Trophy particularly intense.
What Makes a Yashin Trophy Winner?
Named after the legendary Soviet goalkeeper Lev Yashin, this trophy recognizes excellence in goalkeeping based on three key aspects: individual performance, impact on team success, and sportsmanship. With Williams’ stellar displays for Mamelodi Sundowns and the South African national team, he’s hoping his skill and leadership will catch the eyes of the selection panel.
Who Decides the Winner?
A panel of journalists representing the top 100 nations in FIFA’s ranking will vote on the Yashin Trophy. Each juror selects their top three goalkeepers from the nominees, awarding 5, 3, and 1 points. The goalkeeper with the highest points total will take home the trophy. In the event of a tie, first-place votes will determine the winner, with second-place votes considered if needed.
Inside the 2024 Ballon d’Or Awards Ceremony
The Theatre du Chatelet in Paris will again host the Ballon d’Or awards, beginning at 19:00 GMT (23:00 South African time). Hosted by Ivory Coast icon Didier Drogba and journalist Sandy Heribert, the evening will feature numerous awards, including the coveted Ballon d’Or for Player of the Year, the Kopa Trophy for top U21 talent, Coach of the Year, Club of the Year, the Gerd Muller Trophy for leading scorer, and the Socrates Award for humanitarian contributions in football.
How to Watch the 2024 Ballon d’Or Ceremony
Fans eager to watch the Ballon d’Or ceremony live can tune in via the L’Equipe YouTube channel, though regional restrictions may apply. The gala promises a night of celebration, applauding the most influential players of the past season.
Williams’ incredible achievements have already inspired fans in South Africa and across Africa, and this nomination alone solidifies his place among the world’s elite. Whether or not he brings home the Yashin Trophy, his journey to the Ballon d’Or stage is a win in itself.
Related article: Ronwen Williams’ Yashin Trophy Update: Can He Win It?