He also became the seventh Nigerian to claim the award, joining legends like Nwankwo Kanu (twice), Victor Ikpeba, Rashidi Yekini, Emmanuel Amunike, and Victor Osimhen. Lookman thrived in his second season under Gian Piero Gasperini, contributing 27 goals and assists (17 goals, 10 assists) in 45 appearances across all competitions.
A standout moment came in the Europa League final, where Lookman netted his first career hat-trick to secure a 3-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen, delivering Atalanta their first-ever European trophy.
“This award is a blessing, to be recognized as best player in Africa is something incredible,” Lookman said. “Four years ago my career fell down but now I’m here as the best player in Africa. Don’t let your failures stop your dreams,” he added.
🚨 Ademola Lookman is the African Ballon d’Or 2024! 🌍🇳🇬
Lookman wins ahead of finalists Adingra, Guirassy, Hakimi, Ronwen Williams 🏆✨ pic.twitter.com/O0frtMt3ZC
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 16, 2024
He also became just the second player to score a hat-trick in a major European final for an Italian club, after Pierino Prati’s treble for AC Milan against Ajax in 1969. Lookman has carried his exceptional form into the current season, helping Atalanta claim the top spot in the Serie A standings. This season, Lookman has been one of Serie A’s top performers, with only Atalanta teammate Mateo Retegui (15) and Marcus Thuram (14) contributing to more goals than his tally of 12.
Lookman’s late winner against Milan earlier this month helped Atalanta match their record for consecutive Serie A victories, which they then surpassed with a triumph over Cagliari.
On the international stage, Lookman shone at the Africa Cup of Nations, earning a spot in the tournament’s best XI after scoring three goals and helping the Super Eagles to a runner-up finish. He was also the sole African nominee on this year’s men’s Ballon d’Or shortlist, where he placed 14th.
Meanwhile, Orlando Pride striker Barbra Banda made history as the first Zambian to claim the women’s award, beating Moroccan Sanaa Mssoudy and Nigeria’s Chiamaka Nnadozie.
The award is decided by a panel comprising national team coaches and captains, though the voting results were not immediately disclosed.
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Mohd Faisal Hakak is a sports author from Kashmir. He likes to keep tabs on the sporting world with a keen interest in football, motorsports, NBA, and other marquee sports. He is a science graduate from Islamia College Srinagar.
