With the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris coming to a close on the weekend, Saudi Arabia can reflect upon on a participation marked by historic firsts and commendable performances, despite leaving without any medals. This year’s Olympics signalled the Kingdom’s growing presence on the global sports stage, underscoring its commitment to becoming a powerhouse in international sports, as well as showcasing its evolving societal landscape.
One of the most significant milestones for Saudi Arabia was the remarkable journey of Dunya Abutaleb, who made history as the first Saudi woman to compete in an Olympic final. Her participation in the -49 kg taekwondo bronze medal match under the iconic Grand Palais’s roof was a landmark moment for Saudi sports. Abutaleb, who was also the flag bearer for Saudi Arabia at the opening ceremony, fought with determination and passion, embodying the spirit of progress and change that Saudi Arabia is striving for under its Vision 2030.
Abutaleb’s path to the bronze medal match in Paris was filled with intense battles. She made a strong start by eliminating Israel’s Avishag Semberg in the round of 16, demonstrating her skill and resilience. However, she faced a tough defeat in the quarterfinals against Thailand’s Panipak Wongpattanakit, the reigning Olympic champion. Due to Wongpattanakit’s advancement to the final, Abutaleb was granted a place in the “repechage” round, where she defeated Morocco’s Oumaima El Bouchti. Her dream of an Olympic medal was ultimately halted by Iran’s Mobina Nematzadeh, who won the match two rounds to none.
Despite not securing a medal, Abutaleb’s achievement is monumental. At 27, she became the first Saudi woman to qualify for the Olympics based on merit, rather than through an invitation, a significant step forward for female athletes in the Kingdom. Her journey is a testament to the progress being made in Saudi Arabia, where women’s sports have historically been restricted.
Abutaleb herself spoke to Vogue Arabia about her struggles growing up, sneaking into sports facilities by wearing a cap because girls were not allowed, and continuing her training at home when she was denied entry. Her perseverance and eventual success symbolize the broader changes occurring in Saudi Arabia.
In addition to Abutaleb’s milestone in Paris, the Kingdom also saw its equestrian team return to the Olympic stage for the first time since 2012. Although the team, consisting of veterans like Ramzy Al-Duhami and Abdullah Al-Sharbatly, did not advance to the final rounds, their participation marked an important moment for Saudi equestrian sports. Saudi Arabia has a rich equestrian heritage, and the team’s presence at the Olympics underscores the Kingdom’s dedication to maintaining and promoting this cultural tradition on a global stage.
Saudi Arabia’s broader sports strategy is also evident in its increasing involvement in hosting major international events. The Kingdom is set to host the first-ever Olympic Esports Games in 2025, a landmark event that aligns with its Vision 2030 goals.
This initiative is part of Saudi Arabia’s larger plan to diversify its economy, enhance its global standing, and foster a culture of inclusivity and innovation through sports. The Kingdom has already hosted over 100 international sports events since 2018, including high-profile events like the Dakar Rally, Formula 1 races, and the Saudi Cup horse race, which have attracted millions of spectators and participants.
Furthermore, Saudi Arabia’s commitment to becoming a global sports hub is reflected in its aspirations to host the Summer Olympics in 2036. While the 2036 venue has yet to be decided, with countries like India, Mexico, and Qatar also in the running, Saudi Arabia’s ongoing investment in sports infrastructure and its successful hosting of international events make it a strong contender.
Thank you, Paris! Now off to LA. pic.twitter.com/MxlAb0hZbT
— Tom Cruise (@TomCruise) August 11, 2024
The 2024 Olympics have undoubtedly raised Saudi Arabia’s profile on the international sports stage. And as KSA continues to invest in sports and promote inclusivity, the future looks promising, not just for the kingdom’s athletes but for its entire sporting ecosystem.
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Read also: Historic day for Saudi women in sport thanks to Dunya Abutaleb
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Photo – top of page – Ibex73 (Commons Wikimedia)
