Osimhen Named GQ Sportsman of the Year in Turkey

Super Eagles and Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen has been named the GQ Sportsman of the Year in Turkey.

Osimhen received the honour at a black-tie ceremony in Istanbul on Wednesday. The award, organised annually by GQ Turkey, recognises top achievers in sports, music, film, and other creative industries.

The 26-year-old forward has become a key figure at Galatasaray since joining the club, playing a major role in last season’s domestic double. He scored 37 goals and registered seven assists in 41 appearances as the club won both the Super Lig and the Turkish Cup. His impact prompted Galatasaray to trigger a €75 million deal, setting a new Turkish transfer record for his permanent move from Napoli.

Although injuries have limited his time on the pitch this season, Osimhen has remained influential, scoring 11 goals in 14 matches across all competitions.

For Nigeria, the striker has been one of the Super Eagles’ standout performers in the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign. After missing the opening four games, he returned to score six goals in five matches and helped push the team into the play-offs. He added two more goals in the semi-final win over Gabon, but injury restricted his involvement in the decisive clash with DR Congo, which Nigeria lost on penalties.

Osimhen is expected to lead Nigeria’s attack at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, scheduled for December 21 to January 18, 2026.

In his acceptance speech, Osimhen thanked the organisers, Galatasaray, and supporters, saying the recognition “means so much” to him and his family.

The ceremony also honoured several personalities across different fields. Turkish actor Aras Aydın won International Achiever of the Year, actress Sinem Ünsal received the Woman of the Year award, singer Edis was named Music Person of the Year, and Bahtiyar Büyükduman was recognised as Chef of the Year. Eleven other awards were presented during the event.