Ronwen Williams credited his hard work after earning the prestigious Footballer of the Season award in the PSL, a rare accolade for a goalkeeper.
The Mamelodi Sundowns star joins the elite company of only two other goalkeepers who have previously won this award. Andre Arendse was the first, securing it in the 2001/02 season after leading Santos to a league victory.
A decade later, Itumeleng Khune of Kaizer Chiefs received the honour for his outstanding performance in the 2012/13 season.
At the age of 32, Williams has had an extraordinary season with the Brazilians, instrumental in their capture of a seventh consecutive league title.
His performance stats are impressive: 15 clean sheets in 22 league matches and a mere eight goals conceded throughout the season. These accomplishments also earned him the title of DStv Premiership Goalkeeper of the Year.
“I’m honoured and privileged to receive the Footballer of the Season award. I’m over the moon. It’s an incredible personal achievement,” Williams said.
“But I could not have done it by myself. I want to thank the entire Mamelodi Sundowns family, the chairman [Tlhopie Motsepe], the entire board and our technical team.
“Thanks to my family and also my loved ones for being with me on this journey for the love and the support.
“Lastly, I want to thank myself for not giving up. When things were tough, I kept going, so I’m happy and there is much more to come.
“Special mention to coach Rulani for pushing me throughout the season and making me a better player, and the technical team.
“Thank you so much for pushing me and helping me to take my game to the next level.
“Also, a thank you to every player that helped me this past season for supporting me. The love and brotherhood we shared throughout the season.”