The Seagulls shot-stopper was presented with the award on Monday night, as Ryan and his Socceroos team-mates prepare for their World Cup qualifier against Nepal in Canberra on Thursday.
It is the second time that the keeper has won the award, after claiming the prize in 2015 during his time at Club Brugge.
Upon collecting the award, he said, “To accept the award in front of my teammates was a very proud moment and something I will cherish.
“It’s a nice bit of recognition of all the hard work and dedication that you put in. I’m obviously living the dream and doing the best that I can, and it’s nice to be recognised by my peers for the contribution I can make as a footballer to the country and domestically with Brighton as well.”
Ryan edged out Albion teammate Aaron Mooy, Danny Vukovic (Genk), Roy Krishna (Wellington Phoenix) and Isaias (Adelaide United) to the prize.