PETALING JAYA: Feroz Baharudin (pic) was fast becoming the gold standard among Malaysian centrebacks with his commanding displays for Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) on both the domestic and continental stages.
But just as the 25-year-old was reaching new heights, his journey took a painful turn.
In January, Feroz suffered a devastating anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, a moment he calls the lowest point of his career.
Yet, as the curtain fell on the season, Feroz has found light amid the darkness, winning the best defender award at the Malaysian Football Awards on April 24.
Emotionally charged and humbled by the honour, Feroz admitted the accolade was bittersweet.
“Deep down, I’m truly grateful for this recognition. But I’m happy and sad at the same time,” said Feroz.
“Suffering an ACL injury was the saddest thing that has ever happened to me. But to end the season with an award like this? I’m thankful to everyone who prayed for me.”
Feroz was a mainstay in JDT’s three-man backline under coach Hector Bidoglio before the injury struck, showcasing maturity and intelligence far beyond his years.
In the Super League, he started 13 matches and was a standout in ball recoveries, averaging nine per game – a testament to his excellent reading of the game and positional sense.
His continental credentials were also on display in the AFC Champions League Elite, where he featured in two matches and netted once.
In the Malaysia Cup, which JDT won on Saturday, Feroz made only two appearances but he played five times and scored twice in the FA Cup – a competition which the Southern Tigers also ruled in a season where they completed a third straight quadruple.
Though sidelined for the second half of the season, Feroz’s impact was undeniable, and the award serves as recognition for his early-season excellence.
“This has been my best season so far. Unfortunately, midway through, luck deserted me. But this award will drive me to come back stronger. My goal is to bring pride to the nation and my club.”
As Feroz works his way back to full fitness ahead of the 2025-2026 season, there is little doubt he will return with even more hunger, ready to reclaim his place as one of Malaysia’s finest defenders.
