For Ahmed Aiham, it all began on his home island of Utheem, where watching football on television as a child sparked an interest that would eventually take him to the highest level of the game in the Maldives. Today, the FAM Best Footballer Award winner has his sights set on an even bigger goal: winning an international trophy for his country.

Aiham’s journey began with a simple fascination with football. Growing up in Utheem, he spent years playing the game on his island before his talent earned recognition and opened the door to first-division football.

From those early days, he continued to develop as a player, eventually becoming an important member of the Maldives national football team.

In an exclusive interview with Sukun, Aiham spoke about his journey, the recognition he has received, and the ambitions that continue to drive him forward.

A life centred on football

For Aiham, football is no longer just a game. It has become the centre of his daily life.

He said he is now focused solely on football, with his routine revolving around training, practice and improving his game.

That commitment has helped him reach a milestone many aspiring footballers dream of achieving: being named the best footballer in the country.

The Football Association of Maldives (FAM) awarded Aiham the Best Footballer Award after he competed against more experienced players for the honour.

Aiham said he was delighted to receive the award, describing it as a dream shared by every footballer.

For a player who began his journey on a small island, the recognition represents a significant achievement and a moment to appreciate how far he has come.

From individual recognition to a national dream

Winning the country’s top individual football award, however, has not brought Aiham’s ambitions to an end.

His next target is to help the Maldives win an international trophy.

The ambition reflects a shift in focus from personal achievement to collective success — representing his country and contributing to a milestone for Maldivian football.

Having established himself as an important player for the national team, Aiham now wants to turn his dedication and experience into success on the international stage.

Leaving futsal behind to pursue football

Football has not been the only format in which Aiham has demonstrated his ability. He also made a name for himself as a futsal player before deciding to concentrate on football.

The decision marked a commitment to one path, allowing him to focus his time and energy on developing his career in the eleven-a-side game.

From the first inspiration he found watching matches on television in Utheem to representing the Maldives and winning the FAM Best Footballer Award, Aiham’s journey illustrates how an early passion can grow into a serious sporting career.

Now, with the country’s top individual honour behind him, he is looking towards a bigger prize — an international trophy that would allow him to celebrate success not just as a player, but alongside the nation he represents.