As the sole African football player to represent the continent at the coveted Ballon d’Or presentation in Paris on Monday, October 28, Super Eagles star and Atalanta striker Ademola Lookman has responded.
The lone African on this year’s shortlist for the trophy is the 27-year-old who led Atalanta to their first-ever Europa League victory over Bayer Leverkusen and became the first player to score a hat-trick in a European final since 1975.
Speaking of the significant milestone, Lookman told BBC Sport Africa: “It’s special being on the list and even more special being the only African.”
“We have achieved great things this year, with club and country. To be recognised as one of the contenders is a great achievement.
On his hat-trick which led Atalanta to their first-ever Europa League triumph against Bayer Leverkusen last year, he said: “That night was special,” Lookman recalled. “The way we did it was incredible because Leverkusen were on fire that season. Those are the moments you wish and dream for.”
“Coming out of my comfort zone is never easy, but I’m open to that idea of learning and wanting to be better – not just as a player, but as a person also,” he added.
Lookman’s performances have also made him the top favourite for the 2024 CAF Player of the Year award, where he faces competition from nine other nominees including his compatriot William Troost-Ekong.
