Arab athletes have consistently proven their prowess on the world stage, showcasing exceptional talent and dedication across various sports. From football fields to athletic tracks, and golf courses to taekwondo mats, these athletes have left an indelible mark with their remarkable performances. Here, we celebrate 20 Arab athletes who have given world-class performances, becoming icons in their respective fields.
Ons Jabeur
Ons Jabeur, born on August 28, 1994, is a highly accomplished Tunisian professional tennis player. As of June 27, 2022, she reached a career-high ranking of world No. 2 according to the Women's Tennis Association (WTA). Jabeur holds the esteemed position as the current Tunisian number one and is recognized as the highest-ranked African and Arab tennis player in the history of WTA and ATP rankings. With five singles titles on the WTA Tour, along with eleven singles titles and one doubles title on the ITF Circuit, her prowess on the court is truly remarkable.
Notably, Jabeur made history as the runner-up at Wimbledon in both 2022 and 2023, as well as at the US Open in 2022. In doing so, she became the first African and Arab woman to compete in a major singles final. Her journey in tennis began at the age of three, introduced to the sport by her mother. Proving her talent at a young age, Jabeur reached two junior major girls' singles finals at the French Open in 2010 and 2011, winning the latter and becoming the first African or Arab to achieve such a victory since 1964.
Transitioning to the professional arena in her teenage years, Jabeur initially focused on the ITF level. However, since 2017, she has been a regular contender on the WTA Tour. Her list of accomplishments includes winning the Arab Woman of the Year award in 2019. Noteworthy milestones include reaching the quarterfinals at the 2020 Australian Open, repeating the feat at the 2021 Wimbledon Championships, and securing the title at the 2021 Birmingham Classic, making her the first Arab woman to win a WTA Tour event.
In 2022, Jabeur achieved a significant milestone by winning the Madrid Open, a WTA 1000 event, marking her biggest title to date. This triumph not only established her as the first female Tunisian and Arab player to win at this level but also contributed to elevating the profile of tennis across the African continent.
Rababe Arafi
Rababe Arafi, born on January 12, 1991, hails from Khouribga, Morocco, and is a notable middle-distance runner specializing in the 1500 meters. A three-time medallist at the African Championships in Athletics, she clinched the continental title in 2012 with a record-setting run of 4:05.80 minutes. Arafi also holds the Moroccan national records for the mile run and the 1500 meters, achieving a remarkable time of 3:58.84 minutes on June 16, 2019, in Rabat during the Diamond League.
Having represented Morocco in the 2016 Summer Olympics, Arafi made it to the 1500 meters final. She showcased her athletic prowess at the World Championships in Athletics in 2013, 2015, and 2017, securing eighth place in the 1500 meters at the 2017 edition. Although initially winning the bronze at the 2014 IAAF World Indoor Championships, Arafi faced disqualification due to contact with Heather Kampf, leading to Kampf's fall.
Arafi's sporting achievements extend to her participation in various championships, including the IAAF World Cross Country Championships in 2007, though she did not finish the race. Notable gold medals in the 1500 meters adorn her career, earned at the Arab Athletics Championships (2013), Islamic Solidarity Games (2013 and 2017), and the Jeux de la Francophonie (2013 and 2017).
Yousif Mirza
Yousif Mohamed Ahmed Mirza Al-Hammadi, born on October 8, 1988, is a retired Emirati racing cyclist who made his mark as a professional rider with UCI WorldTeam UAE Team Emirates from 2017 to 2022.
Mirza boasts a collection of Emirati national titles and earned recognition by clinching the silver medal in the road race at the 2015 Asian Cycling Championships. This accomplishment secured his spot in the 2016 Summer Olympics in Brazil, making him the first Emirati cyclist to compete in the Olympic road race. Following the disbandment of his team, Al Nasr Pro Cycling Team–Dubai, at the close of the 2016 season, he made a significant move to join the UAE Abu Dhabi team in 2017, thereby becoming the inaugural Emirati rider to be part of a UCI WorldTeam.
Cycling seems to run in the family, as Mirza's older brother, Badr, also pursued a career as a professional road cyclist.
Raneem El Weleily
Raneem Mohamed Yasser Saad El Din El Welily, born on January 1, 1989, in Alexandria, Egypt, is a retired professional squash player hailing from Egypt.[1] In September 2015, she achieved the pinnacle of her career, attaining the prestigious world No. 1 ranking. Throughout her impressive career, she reached the finals of the World Open three times, in 2014, 2016, and 2019/2020. The highlight of her squash journey came in 2017 when she secured the title of World Champion by defeating Nour El Sherbini in a gripping final.
Soufiane El Bakkali
Soufiane El Bakkali, born on January 7, 1996, is a distinguished Moroccan runner specializing in the 3000 meters steeplechase. His notable achievements include clinching the gold medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, a significant triumph after securing fourth place at the 2016 Rio Olympics. On the global stage of World Athletics Championships, El Bakkali showcased his prowess by earning two gold medals, the first in 2022 and another in 2023. His journey also includes a silver medal in 2017 and a bronze in 2019.
Adding to his impressive track record, El Bakkali secured third place at the 2019 African Games and a second-place finish at the 2018 African Championships. His prowess in the 3000 meters steeplechase was further underscored by his victory as the 2022 Diamond League champion in the said event.
Zahra Lari
Zahra Lari, born on March 3, 1995, is a trailblazing Emirati figure skater, marking her status as the first figure skater from the United Arab Emirates and the Middle East to partake in international competitions. With an impressive record, she holds the title of five-time Emirati National Champion.
Beyond her commitment to the ice, Zahra pursued academic excellence, graduating from Abu Dhabi University with a major in Environmental Health and Safety. Adding another feather to her cap, she is the Co-Founder and CEO of Emirates Skating Club, the pioneering figure skating club in the country.
Zahra extends her dedication beyond the rink, emerging as a passionate activist for the health and well-being of the UAE society, with a particular focus on women's issues. Her commitment to societal betterment is officially recognized, as she is registered and certified in the UAE National Records for her outstanding achievements in serving both the society and the state.
Ahmad Abughaush
Ahmad Abughaush, born on February 1, 1996, is a notable Jordanian taekwondo athlete. His remarkable achievement includes securing the gold medal in the 68 kg category at the 2016 Olympics, marking a historic moment as Jordan's first Olympic medal in any sport, excluding a bronze in 1988 when taekwondo was a demonstration sport.
Born in Amman, Jordan, Abughaush's roots trace back to Palestinian descent, with his grandparents having been relocated from the town of Abu Ghosh to Jordan decades earlier.
Abughaush's journey in taekwondo began at a local training center in Amman, where his skills earned him a spot on the national team. In 2010, he made a significant mark by being the sole Arab athlete to achieve a gold medal at the Taekwondo World Championship for juniors held in Sharm el-Sheikh. His transition to elite competition occurred in 2011 at the World Taekwondo Championships in the men's finweight event, where he faced Meisam Bagheri in the 16th finals.
Participating in various championships, Abughaush's excellence in taekwondo was recognized when he received the best Jordanian athlete award from the Jordan Olympic Committee in 2012. Overcoming a setback in 2013 due to a cruciate ligament rupture, Abughaush demonstrated resilience by taking a year off, returning to training, and subsequently winning gold medals in several international championships in 2014.
Inès Boubakri
Inès Boubakri, born on December 28, 1988, is a distinguished Tunisian foil fencer with an impressive Olympic journey. A four-time Olympian, she achieved a significant milestone by winning a bronze medal at the 2016 Summer Olympics. Boubakri is affiliated with the Association sportive de Bourg-la-Reine in France, under the guidance of head coach Yann Detienne.
Her Olympic debut took place at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, where she participated in the women's individual foil event. Despite facing a challenging first preliminary round match against Chinese-born Canadian fencer Jujie Luan, a former Olympic gold medalist, Boubakri displayed determination.
In the 2012 Summer Olympics in London, Boubakri qualified once again for the women's individual foil event. This time, she advanced through the preliminary rounds by defeating competitors like Nicole Ross from the United States and Astrid Guyart from France. Her journey reached the quarterfinals, where she faced Italian fencer and three-time Olympic champion Valentina Vezzali, ultimately losing with a final score of 7–8 during the "sudden death minute."
The pinnacle of Boubakri's career came at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, where she made history. She became the first Tunisian, as well as the first African and Arab woman, to win an Olympic medal in fencing by securing the bronze. Along the way, she overcame formidable opponents, including Noura Mohamed from Egypt and Canadian Eleanor Harvey. Although she faced a setback in the semi-finals against the reigning Olympic Champion Elisa Di Francisca from Italy, Boubakri rallied in the medal match to defeat Russian Aida Shanayeva with a score of 15-11, overcoming an initial 4–7 deficit in the first period.
Continuing her legacy, Inès Boubakri also competed in the women's individual foil event at the 2020 Summer Olympics, showcasing her enduring commitment to the sport and her nation.
Ramadan Sobhi
Ramadan Sobhi Ramadan Ahmed, born on January 23, 1997, is a talented Egyptian professional footballer renowned for his role as a winger for Pyramids FC and the Egypt national team.
Sobhi's football journey commenced with the prestigious Egyptian club Ahly SC of Cairo, where he made his professional debut in February 2014. Excelling at the Cairo International Stadium, he played a crucial role in helping Al Ahly secure the Egyptian Premier League title in the 2013–14 and 2015–16 campaigns. His standout performances on the pitch caught the attention of European clubs, leading him to make a significant move to English side Stoke City in July 2016 for a transfer fee of £5 million.
During his two-season stint with Stoke, Sobhi showcased his football prowess. In June 2018, he embarked on a new chapter by joining Huddersfield Town. Despite his efforts, he faced challenges in establishing himself at Huddersfield, prompting a loan return to Al Ahly in January 2019. In September 2020, Sobhi made a transfer to Pyramids FC, further contributing to his dynamic football career.
Sarah Essam
Sarah Essam Hassanin, born on April 6, 1999, is a skilled Egyptian footballer known for her versatility as a midfielder, winger, or attacker. She currently contributes her talents to English club Rugby Borough in the National League South and proudly represents the Egypt women's national team.
Essam's journey in sports began in her childhood, where she engaged in soccer and basketball with her siblings. Her early passion for the game led her to join the academy at Wadi Degla. Making her mark early on, Essam debuted for the first team at the age of 15, earning the distinction of being the youngest player in the Egyptian Women's Premier League.
In 2017, Essam achieved a groundbreaking milestone by becoming the first Egyptian woman to play competitive football in the UK when she signed with Stoke City FC. Her ambition extended to trials with other English clubs, including Sunderland, Derby County, and Birmingham. During the 2018-19 season, she emerged as the top scorer for Stoke City Ladies' Development Team, netting 12 goals in 12 matches and receiving the prestigious Golden Boot award.
Amid the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the English FA's Women's National League season results were expunged, prompting Essam to return to Egypt for training. In 2022, she embarked on a new chapter in her career by signing with Fundacion Albacete in the Primera Federacion, the second division of Spanish women's football.
The year 2023 marked another significant move for Essam, as she joined Rugby Borough FC, contributing to the team's rebranding efforts and showcasing her talent on the field in the National League South. Sarah Essam Hassanin continues to inspire as a trailblazer in Egyptian women's football, leaving an indelible mark on the global stage.
Abdel Nader
Abdel Rahman Nader, born on September 25, 1993, is a talented Egyptian-American professional basketball player with a notable career in the National Basketball Association (NBA). His last stint was with the Phoenix Suns. Nader initially showcased his skills in college basketball, playing for the Northern Illinois Huskies and later the Iowa State Cyclones.
The Boston Celtics recognized Nader's potential and drafted him with the 58th overall pick in the 2016 NBA draft. Following his time with the Celtics, he also contributed to the Oklahoma City Thunder. Born in Alexandria, Egypt, Nader's basketball journey began at Maine East High School, and he later transferred to Niles North.
At Niles North, Nader left an indelible mark, averaging impressive statistics of 23.8 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game during his senior year. His exceptional performance led the Vikings to a 24–6 record, securing their first sectional championship and Central Suburban League titles in the school's 47-year history. Nader's achievements earned him First Team All-State honors from the Chicago Tribune, recognition as part of the Chicago Sun-Times Class 4A Second Team All-State, and a spot on the ESPN Chicago All-Area team. Abdel Rahman Nader continues to make waves in the basketball world, representing both his Egyptian heritage and American basketball prowess on the NBA stage.
Ray Bassil
Ray Jacques Bassil, born on October 20, 1988, is an accomplished Lebanese trap shooter with an impressive list of achievements in her career. Notably, she clinched gold at the 2016 ISSF World Cup in Nicosia and replicated her success at the 2019 Asian Shooting Championships in Doha.
Bassil has proudly represented Lebanon at the Olympic Games on three occasions—in 2012, 2016, and the rescheduled 2020 Games. Her journey into trap shooting commenced at the age of eight, guided and encouraged by her father Jacques. Beginning her competitive career in 2006, Bassil quickly made her mark, winning her first medal—a bronze—at the ISSF Junior World Championships in Nicosia, Cyprus, in 2007.
The Lebanese athlete made her Olympic debut at the 2012 Summer Olympics in London, finishing 18th. She returned for the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, securing the 14th position.
Bassil's breakthrough moment came with her first career gold medal at the 2016 ISSF World Cup in Nicosia. This victory set the stage for her continued success, as she earned another gold at the 2019 Asian Shooting Championships in Doha, Qatar. This achievement not only added to her accolades but also secured her qualification for the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo.
A proud representative of Lebanon, Bassil had the honor of being the flag bearer for her country at the 2020 Olympics. In the women's trap event, she displayed her skill but finished in 21st place. Ray Jacques Bassil's dedication and achievements in trap shooting make her a respected figure in the world of sports, showcasing her talent on both regional and global stages.
Taoufik Makhloufi
Taoufik Makhloufi, born on April 29, 1988, is a highly accomplished Algerian athlete specializing in middle-distance running. He made a significant mark in the sporting world by securing the gold medal in the 1500 meters at the 2012 Summer Olympics in London, England. His prowess continued to shine in 2016, where Makhloufi earned the silver medal in both the 800 meters and 1500 meters at the Summer Olympics in Rio, Brazil.
Adding to his impressive list of achievements, Makhloufi claimed the gold medal in the 800 meters at the 2012 African Championships and the 2011 All-Africa Games. Representing Algeria with pride, he has competed three times at the World Championships in Athletics.
Taoufik Makhloufi has demonstrated exceptional speed and endurance, evident in his personal bests of 1:42.61 minutes for the 800 meters, set at the Rio Olympics, and 3:28.75 minutes for the 1500 meters. His commitment to excellence is further highlighted by his training with GS Pétroliers, showcasing his dedication to continuous improvement and success on the global stage of middle-distance running.
Dalma Malhas
Dalma Malhas is an equestrian. She was supposed to be the first Saudi female athlete to compete at the Summer Olympics.
When she rode at the inaugural Youth Olympic Games in 2010,[1] she was amongst a high-profile group of speakers who addressed the recent International Olympic Committee Women and Sport conference in Los Angeles. The 20-year-old, who won individual bronze in Singapore, spoke of her hope of gender equality in all sports.
Ramzi Boukhiam
Ramzi Boukhiam, born on September 14, 1993, in Agadir, is a talented Moroccan surfer who has made significant waves in the world of competitive surfing. His notable achievements include placing 6th overall at the 2019 ISA World Surfing Games, securing qualification for the 2020 Summer Olympics as the highest-placed African surfer. At the Olympics, he participated in the men's shortboard event, reaching the third round before being eliminated by Michel Bourez of France.
In a historic feat, Boukhiam made Moroccan surfing history in 2022 by becoming the first surfer from Morocco to qualify for the World Surf League's (WSL) Championship Tour. This achievement not only reflects his individual skill and dedication to the sport but also elevates the profile of Moroccan surfing on the global stage. Ramzi Boukhiam's journey continues to inspire and contribute to the growth of surfing in his home country and beyond.
Hedaya Malak
Hedaya Malak Wahba, born on April 21, 1993, is a highly accomplished Egyptian taekwondo practitioner, known for her impressive performances at multiple Olympic Games. Her taekwondo journey began at the age of six, inspired by her elder brother, and she quickly rose through the ranks, winning the Giza governorate championship and later claiming the Egyptian championship at just 14 years old.
In the 2012 Olympic Games in London, Malak competed in the Taekwondo women's 57 kg category. She showcased her skill by defeating Robin Cheong of New Zealand in the round of 16, securing a spot in the quarterfinals. Despite facing a tough challenge from Marlène Harnois of France, Malak's performance demonstrated her potential on the international stage.
Her journey continued with the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, where she qualified by ranking third in the WTF Olympic Rankings. Malak navigated through the early rounds, defeating opponents like Doris Patiño and Mayu Hamada. Although she faced a setback in the semifinals against Eva Calvo of Spain, Malak rebounded to claim the bronze medal by defeating Raheleh Asemani of Belgium in the Repechage.
Malak's Olympic success extended to the 2020 Summer Olympics, where she represented Egypt in the –67 kg category. Despite a loss in the quarterfinal to Lauren Williams of Great Britain, Malak secured the bronze medal by triumphing over Malia Paseka of Tonga and Paige McPherson of the United States in the Repechage. Hedaya Malak Wahba's achievements in taekwondo have not only made her a prominent figure in Egyptian sports but have also earned her respect on the global stage of Olympic competition.
Mutaz Essa BARSHIM
Mutaz Essa Barshim, born on June 24, 1991, is a renowned Qatari track and field athlete excelling in the high jump. With an impressive list of achievements, he currently holds the title of Olympic Champion (2020) and World Champion, standing as the second-highest jumper of all time with a personal best of 2.43 meters.
Barshim's success is evident in his gold medal victories at the 2017 World Championships in London and the 2019 World Championships in Doha. At the Olympic level, he boasts a remarkable collection of medals, originally winning the full set with a bronze at the London 2012 Summer Olympics, a silver at the Rio 2016 Summer Olympics, and sharing gold at the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics. In 2021, his bronze in the London 2012 Summer Olympics was upgraded to silver due to the disqualification of the original gold medalist.
His dominance extends to his performances in the Asian Indoor and World Junior championships in 2010, where he clinched the titles. Additionally, Barshim secured gold medals in high jump at the 2011 Asian Athletics Championships and the 2011 Military World Games. Notably, he holds the Asian record in the high jump.
In his high jump technique, Mutaz jumps off his left foot using the Fosbury Flop, characterized by a pronounced backward arch over the bar. His approach involves looking over the landing mat, showcasing a distinctive and effective style. Adding a familial touch to his athletic journey, one of his brothers, Muamer, is also a high jumper. Mutaz Essa Barshim's achievements have solidified his legacy as one of the world's premier high jumpers, bringing pride to Qatar and the global track and field community.
Maha Haddioui
Maha Haddioui, born on May 15, 1988, is a trailblazing Moroccan professional golfer, making significant contributions to the sport on the Ladies European Tour. Notably, she holds the distinction of being the first Arab with playing privileges on the Ladies European Tour, marking a historic milestone in golf.
Haddioui's journey in golf took her to Lynn University, where she emerged as the top-ranked golfer in NCAA Division II, showcasing her talent and dedication to the sport. Her achievements extended to the international stage as she qualified for the 2016 Summer Olympics, representing Morocco. While the competition was fierce, Haddioui made history by participating in the Olympic event, even though she finished in the last place.
Undeterred by challenges, she continued to pursue excellence in golf and secured qualification for the 2020 Summer Olympics. During the Olympics, Haddioui showcased her skill by scoring a hole-in-one, a remarkable feat in the sport. Despite facing tough competition, she finished tied for 43rd place at one over par.
Maha Haddioui's presence on the Ladies European Tour and her representation at the Olympic Games not only underline her individual achievements but also serve as an inspiration for aspiring golfers in the Arab region and beyond. Her dedication and achievements contribute to the growth and recognition of golf in Morocco and the broader golfing community.
Marouane Chamakh
Marouane Chamakh, born on January 10, 1984, is a former professional footballer recognized for his role as a forward. With a distinctive playing style as a prototypical target man, Chamakh is celebrated for his exceptional "link-up play," "tall stature," and "excellent heading ability." He holds a notable place in the history of Bordeaux as the club's eleventh highest goalscorer of all time.
Chamakh's football journey began with training at various clubs in the Aquitaine region before signing with Bordeaux in 2000. He made his professional debut for the club during the 2002–03 season and spent a significant nine years contributing to Bordeaux's success. His impact was particularly evident in the 2007 Coupe de la Ligue victory and the remarkable 2008–09 season when Bordeaux clinched the league title, marking their first championship since 1998–99. Chamakh played a pivotal role as Bordeaux achieved the league and league cup double by also winning the Coupe de la Ligue.
In May 2010, Chamakh made a move to the Premier League by joining Arsenal on a free transfer, securing a four-year contract. During his time with the Gunners, he played a crucial role in taking the club to the League Cup final in 2011. Chamakh etched his name in UEFA Champions League history by becoming the first player to score in six consecutive games during his tenure at the Emirates.
Despite being born and raised in France, Chamakh chose to represent Morocco in international football, influenced by his Moroccan heritage. His national team debut occurred in July 2003, and he participated in three Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, notably reaching the runners-up position in the 2004 tournament. In August 2010, Chamakh captained the national team for the first time, adding leadership to his impressive football career.
Ali Al Habsi
Ali Abdullah Harib Al-Habsi, born on December 30, 1981, is an Omani retired professional footballer renowned for his role as a goalkeeper.
His transfer from Lyn Oslo to Bolton Wanderers in January 2006 attracted attention and was highlighted in the Stevens inquiry report in June 2007. The report expressed concerns regarding potential conflicts of interest involving agent Craig Allardyce, Sam Allardyce (his father), and the club itself.
Upon joining Bolton Wanderers, Al-Habsi did not feature in any first-team matches during his initial year. However, he made his full debut for Bolton in a memorable 2–1 extra-time League Cup victory over Fulham in September 2007.
During the 2007–08 season, Al-Habsi continued to make his mark, securing 15 appearances. One of the notable moments was his performance against Bayern Munich in the UEFA Cup, where he made several crucial saves against the star-studded German team. His first Premier League start came against Wigan Athletic. In recognition of his contributions, Al-Habsi received a contract extension until 2013 in December 2008.
Despite the contract extension, Al-Habsi faced competition for his position and lost his starting spot when Jussi Jääskeläinen returned from injury. The ups and downs of his time at Bolton Wanderers showcased the challenges and dynamics of professional football.
If you have any specific questions or would like more details about Ali Abdullah Harib Al-Habsi's career, feel free to ask!
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