Achraf Hakimi, one of the brightest stars of Paris Saint-Germain and a national hero in Morocco, has spoken publicly with a calm but emotional resolve as his rape case is set to go to trial. For the first time since prosecutors officially confirmed their intention to pursue the charges, Hakimi has sought to make his voice heard, saying that he has found “peace of mind” in trusting the truth to eventually clear his name.
The saga began in February 2023 when a 24-year-old woman accused Hakimi of rape, alleging that he invited her to his home outside Paris while his wife and children were away. The case quickly escalated, and by March 2023, prosecutors had formally charged the Moroccan right-back. Since then, Hakimi has consistently denied the accusation, calling it a complete fabrication and labeling it an extortion attempt designed to damage both his career and reputation.
The player’s lawyers have repeatedly stressed that inconsistencies exist in the woman’s story and that the evidence does not support her claims. On the other side, the accuser’s lawyer has accused Hakimi of trying to manipulate public perception, arguing that his statements are an attempt to downplay the gravity of the allegations. With both narratives sharply divided, the trial promises to be a highly scrutinized battle, not just in the courtroom but also in the court of public opinion.
For Hakimi, the journey has not been easy. Yet, despite the immense pressure and personal turmoil, he has managed to stay focused on football. This year, he played a vital role in PSG’s success, helping the French giants secure the Champions League trophy — an achievement that many thought might be beyond their reach. His ability to perform at such a high level in the midst of one of the most difficult moments of his personal life has drawn both admiration and criticism, with some hailing his mental strength and others questioning how such a high-profile case could coexist with sporting triumphs.
Friends, teammates, and fans in Morocco have rallied behind him, sending messages of encouragement and standing firmly in his corner, insisting that he deserves the benefit of the doubt until the legal process is concluded. For many supporters, Hakimi is more than just a footballer; he represents hope, pride, and inspiration for an entire generation of North Africans who watched him shine at the 2022 World Cup.
As the case now heads into a decisive phase, Hakimi says he is leaning on his inner calm, faith in justice, and the strength of truth. “Peace of mind,” he noted, is what keeps him going every day — a belief that once the full facts are laid bare, his name will be cleared.
The trial, however, is expected to be a long and emotionally charged process, and until it concludes, Achraf Hakimi will remain under the shadow of allegations that could define not only his career but his life. Yet for now, he stands defiant, leaning on resilience, and determined to let truth, not rumor, have the final word.
