PSL Awards: The Last 10 Players Crowned Footballer of the Season
As Lucas Ribeiro Costa swept the 2024/25 PSL Awards with an emphatic four-title haul, including the prestigious Footballer of the Season crown, attention has turned to the elite company he now joins. Over the past decade, some of the country’s finest talents have laid their claim to the top individual honour in our domestic game, each leaving a distinct mark on the Premier Soccer League.
Here’s a look at the past ten players who have been named PSL Footballer of the Season, showcasing a golden era of South African football brilliance.
2024/25: Lucas Ribeiro Costa (Mamelodi Sundowns)
A complete attacking force, the Brazilian maestro didn’t just win—he dazzled. With a campaign marked by creative flair, precise finishing and vital contributions, Ribeiro Costa secured four major honours: Footballer of the Season, Players’ Player, Goal of the Season and Top Goal Scorer. His impact at Chloorkop has been nothing short of electric.
2023/24: Ronwen Williams (Mamelodi Sundowns)
The Sundowns and Bafana Bafana captain delivered one of the most consistent and commanding seasons in goal. Williams earned both the Footballer of the Season and Goalkeeper of the Season awards, thanks to his remarkable shot-stopping, leadership, and composure under pressure. His distribution and clean sheets were key to Sundowns’ dominance.
2022/23: Teboho Mokoena (Mamelodi Sundowns)
Mokoena embodied control and composure in the midfield. A master of dictating tempo, he orchestrated Sundowns’ title charge with seamless transitions and precision passing. His footballing intelligence shone brightly in a season where he quietly dominated the middle of the park.
2021/22: Peter Shalulile (Mamelodi Sundowns)
Relentlessness defined the Namibian forward’s game. Shalulile was a constant threat in the final third, combining tireless running with clinical finishing. His hunger and consistency played a pivotal role in Sundowns’ sustained success.
2020/21: Peter Shalulile (Mamelodi Sundowns)
In his debut season at Sundowns, Shalulile immediately hit the ground running. His non-stop movement and ability to pop up with goals made him a nightmare for defenders. This season marked the start of his reign as one of the league’s most lethal strikers.
2019/20: Themba Zwane (Mamelodi Sundowns)
Elegance personified, Zwane was all class. His football IQ, dribbling finesse, and ability to unlock defences earned him the top honour. He played a key creative role and often made the difference in tight matches.
2018/19: Thembinkosi Lorch (Orlando Pirates)
Lorch came alive in pressure moments. Whether it was a Soweto Derby or a title-deciding clash, “Nyoso” delivered. His knack for scoring in big games and leading the Pirates attack made him indispensable.
2017/18: Percy Tau (Mamelodi Sundowns)
Tau was virtually unplayable this season. With lightning pace and an attacking spark, he lit up the league and earned a move to Europe shortly after. His technical excellence and eye for goal made him a standout.
2016/17: Lebogang Manyama (Cape Town City)
A leader in every sense, Manyama drove a newly-formed Cape Town City side to new heights. His goals, leadership and influence from midfield helped establish the club’s identity and earn him the Footballer of the Season accolade.
2015/16: Khama Billiat (Mamelodi Sundowns)
Billiat was the heartbeat of a dominant Sundowns outfit. Creative, direct, and fearless, he produced one of his finest campaigns to date, scoring and assisting in abundance as the Brazilians steamrolled to the title.
Legends in the Making
The last ten recipients of the PSL’s highest individual honour each defined their era in their own way. From goal-scoring machines and midfield maestros to tactical geniuses and creative dynamos, these stars have elevated the local game to global standards. As Ribeiro Costa enters this illustrious list, fans across the country are left to wonder: Who will be next to shine the brightest in our beautiful game?
Related article: PSL Awards: Kekana Endorses Sundowns Standouts for Top Honours
