In a bold and heartfelt statement, Kylian Mbappé, the global football superstar, has come to the defense of his close friend and former Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) teammate Achraf Hakimi, who is facing serious sexual abuse allegations. Mbappé’s powerful words, reported by L’Équipe, have ignited discussions across the sports world and social media platforms like X, shedding light on the Moroccan defender’s character while raising questions about the high-profile case. “Hakimi is respectful with women. Even when drunk, I’ve never seen him behave inappropriately. We’re not savages, and we’ve been prepared for this since the start of our careers,” Mbappé declared, standing firmly by his friend during a turbulent time.
The allegations against Hakimi stem from an incident in February 2023, when a 24-year-old woman accused the 26-year-old PSG star of rape at his home in Boulogne-Billancourt, near Paris. According to reports, the woman claimed she was invited to Hakimi’s residence after connecting with him on Instagram, alleging non-consensual acts despite her objections. The Nanterre prosecutor’s office formally requested a criminal trial on August 1, 2025, which could lead to a potential 15-year prison sentence if Hakimi is convicted. However, Hakimi has vehemently denied the accusations, labeling them as an attempt at blackmail, a stance supported by his legal team and Mbappé’s testimony.
Mbappé, now a Real Madrid forward, was questioned by investigators in spring 2023 due to his close friendship with Hakimi. His testimony, as revealed by L’Équipe, paints a vivid picture of Hakimi’s distress following the allegations. “That evening, we went to a restaurant. Achraf completely broke down, he cried. He really wasn’t well,” Mbappé recounted. He emphasized Hakimi’s respectful nature, noting that even in moments of intoxication, he had never witnessed inappropriate behavior. Mbappé’s defense extends beyond personal anecdotes, as he highlighted their professional training to navigate the pressures of fame, stating, “We’ve been prepared for this since the start of our careers.”
The case has taken dramatic turns with the emergence of new evidence, including text messages uncovered by police that suggest the accuser may have had ulterior motives. According to L’Équipe, messages sent by the woman to a friend before meeting Hakimi included phrases like “Try to get the codes, we’ll rob him” and “I’m going to f*** him,” which she later dismissed as “dark humor.” These revelations have bolstered Hakimi’s defense, with his lawyer, Fanny Colin, calling the prosecution’s case “incomprehensible and senseless” in light of the evidence. Colin argued that the accuser’s narrative lacks consistency and signs of trauma typically seen in sexual assault cases, further fueling debate about the allegations’ validity.
Mbappé’s public support is a rare move in the world of professional sports, where athletes often avoid commenting on legal matters involving peers. His decision to speak out has sparked both admiration and controversy, with fans on X praising his loyalty. “Mbappé standing by Hakimi shows true friendship,” one user posted, while another wrote, “Kylian’s risking a lot to defend Achraf, but it’s clear he believes in him.” Others, however, question whether his involvement could impact his own reputation, given the case’s sensitivity.
The allegations have cast a shadow over Hakimi’s stellar career, which includes helping PSG win Ligue 1, the Coupe de France, and the UEFA Champions League in the 2024/25 season. As the legal proceedings continue, the case raises broader questions about fame, accountability, and the challenges athletes face in the public eye. Psychological evaluations of the accuser have produced conflicting results, with one noting her account as “sincere” but lacking typical signs of assault-related trauma, while another suggested mismatched expectations between her and Hakimi.
As the world awaits the investigating judge’s decision on whether the case will proceed to trial, Mbappé’s unwavering support remains a focal point. His testimony underscores the strength of their bond, forged during their trophy-laden years at PSG. For now, Hakimi maintains his innocence, with his lawyer vowing to fight the charges. The football community and fans on X continue to watch closely, with sentiments ranging from support for Hakimi to calls for justice. Whatever the outcome, Mbappé’s defense of his friend has added a compelling layer to this high-stakes saga, proving that loyalty and conviction can shine even in the face of controversy.
