🏆 Historic Achievement on the Global Stage
Osimhen’s victory is more than just another trophy on his mantel; it is a historic first for an African athlete. He becomes the first African ever to win a GQ Türkiye honour in any category — a testament to his extraordinary impact not just in Turkey but across the global sports landscape.
The GQ Türkiye Men of the Year Awards, organised by the renowned international men’s lifestyle magazine, spotlight transformative figures whose influence extends well beyond their professional arenas. Osimhen’s inclusion and ultimate triumph underscore his rise as a true global sporting ambassador.
🔥 Stellar Performances that Earned the Honour
This accolade crowns a remarkable period in Osimhen’s career, characterised by breathtaking goal-scoring feats and game-changing performances. During the 2024/25 season, the Nigerian forward notched an astonishing 37 goals and seven assists in 41 appearances, driving Galatasaray to a historic domestic double — securing both the Turkish Süper Lig title and the Turkish Cup. His prolific output and leadership on the pitch were instrumental in the club’s dominance.
This season has continued in similar fashion, with Osimhen already tallying 11 goals in 14 matches across competitions, further solidifying his status as one of the most lethal attackers in world football today.
🎤 Emotional Acceptance and Tribute to Galatasaray
Upon receiving the award, Osimhen was visibly moved, offering heartfelt thanks to the organisers and expressing deep gratitude for the support he has enjoyed since arriving in Turkey. He dedicated the award to his Galatasaray family — the club, his teammates, staff, and the passionate fanbase that has embraced him since his move.
“I want to say a big thank you to GQ. I can’t forget my Galatasaray family. This means so much to me and my family. I appreciate everyone who has supported me up to this hour. I will continue to do my best for my family, for Galatasaray, and for fans all over the world,” Osimhen said during his acceptance speech.
This moment reflects not just personal triumph but a profound connection between a world-class athlete and a fervent footballing community.
💼 From Lagos to Global Stardom
Osimhen’s journey from the streets of Lagos to the summit of European football is nothing short of inspirational. After developing his career in Europe — featuring for clubs such as VfL Wolfsburg, Charleroi, Lille, and Napoli — he rose to elite status with prolific scoring and record-breaking achievements.
His transfer to Galatasaray became permanent in 2025 for a Turkish record fee of €75 million, further cementing his value and influence in European football.
🌍 Elevating African Football on the Global Map
Osimhen’s latest award adds to a growing list of accolades and highlights his role in elevating African football talent on the world stage. Just weeks earlier, he was among the top contenders for the 2025 CAF African Player of the Year Award, reflecting his continental influence, even though he finished behind Achraf Hakimi in that voting.
By breaking barriers and achieving what no African has before, Osimhen is blazing a trail for future generations of athletes from the continent to aspire toward global recognition.
✨ What This Means for Nigerian Football
For Nigeria, Osimhen’s achievement brings immense pride and signals the country’s burgeoning place in world sport. From his early days as a youth talent — including winning the Golden Boot at the FIFA U-17 World Cup — to becoming one of the most feared strikers in global football, Osimhen’s career trajectory symbolizes persistence, excellence, and unrelenting ambition.
His influence extends beyond the pitch, inspiring young Nigerian athletes and drawing international attention to the talent emerging from Africa’s largest footballing nation.
📌 The Road Ahead
With the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on the horizon and continued success at Galatasaray, Osimhen is poised to add even more chapters to his already remarkable career. His GQ Türkiye award — a fusion of sporting excellence and cultural influence — solidifies his status as one of the most compelling figures in sport today.
Victor Osimhen’s GQ Sportsman of the Year accolade is not just a personal triumph — it is a milestone for African excellence, a celebration of tireless dedication, and an affirmation that greatness knows no borders. 🌍💛❤️
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