Asian Footballer of the Year: A Comprehensive Overview
When it comes to the most prestigious individual award in Asian football, the Asian Footballer of the Year is undoubtedly the highlight. This award, which has been in existence since 1960, recognizes the best male and female footballers in Asia. Over the years, it has seen some of the greatest talents in the continent showcase their skills and be celebrated for their contributions to the beautiful game. In this article, we will delve into the history, criteria, and notable winners of the Asian Footballer of the Year award.
History of the Award
The Asian Footballer of the Year award was first introduced in 1960 by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC). The award was initially known as the "Asian Footballer of the Year" for men and the "Asian Women's Footballer of the Year" for women. The first recipient of the men's award was the legendary Brazilian striker, Pelé, who was playing for the South Korea national team at the time. The women's award was first won by the Japanese player, Yoko Tanimura, in 1960.
Criteria for Selection
The selection process for the Asian Footballer of the Year is rigorous and transparent. The AFC invites national associations to submit their nominations for both the men's and women's categories. The criteria for selection include the player's performance in the previous calendar year, their contribution to their national team, and their overall impact on the game in Asia. The nominees are then evaluated by a panel of experts, which includes former players, coaches, and journalists.
Notable Winners
Over the years, the Asian Footballer of the Year award has seen some of the most remarkable talents in the continent. Here are some of the notable winners:
| Year | Winner | Country |
|---|---|---|
| 1960 | Pelé | South Korea |
| 1971 | Shizuo Kikuchi | Japan |
| 1981 | Pauloao César | Brasil |
| 1991 | Alen Boksic | Bosnia and Herzegovina |
| 2001 | Andriy Shevchenko | Ukraine |
| 2011 | Andres Iniesta | Spain |
Among the female winners, some of the most notable names include:
| Year | Winner | Country |
|---|---|---|
| 1960 | Yoko Tanimura | Japan |
| 1971 | Miyoko Shiraishi | Japan |
| 1981 | Yoshiko Tsukada | Japan |
| 1991 | Shinobu Ohara | Japan |
| 2001 | Shinobu Ohara | Japan |
| 2011 | Asunta Alkama | Indonesia |
Impact of the Award
The Asian Footballer of the Year award has had a significant impact on the development of football in Asia. It has provided a platform for young talents to showcase their skills and
