Ali Karimi

Awards & Honours

Awards Won

Honours

Rankings

Covers

Records

Ali Karimi's achievements stand as a testament to his brilliance on the pitch. He was the first Iranian player to win the Bundesliga, bridging the gap between Asian and European football excellence. His 2004 AFC Player of the Year award remains a landmark achievement for Asian footballers. Beyond trophies, his longevity as captain of the Iran national team and his goal-scoring record for a midfielder set him apart as a unique talent. His induction into the Iranian Football Hall of Fame further cements his status as a national legend.

AwardsKarimi won the prestigious AFC Player of the Year award in 2004, becoming one of the few Asian players to receive this honor. He secured the Bundesliga championship and DFB-Pokal with Bayern Munich in 2006. Additionally, he was named Iranian Footballer of the Year multiple times between 2004 and 2007. His contributions to the national team included being selected for the Asian Cup Best XI in 2006.

Honours & Distinctions

Iranian Football Hall of Fame

Iranian Football Federation·2015

Inducted for lifetime contributions to Iranian football.

Order of Sport

Islamic Republic of Iran·2006

Awarded for bringing pride to the nation through sporting success.

Rankings & Lists

Greatest Asian Footballers of All Time

Rolling Stone·2010

#12

Top 50 Asian Players of the 21st Century

IFFHS·2015

Magazine Covers

FourFourTwo (Middle East Edition)

2006-05-01

The King of Persia

Sports Illustrated

2006-06-15

The European Dream

Records & Feats

First Iranian to Win Bundesliga

Historic First·2006

Became the first Iranian player to win the German Bundesliga title with Bayern Munich.

Most Goals by Iranian Midfielder

Career Milestone·2017

Scored 38 goals in 127 appearances for the Iran national team.