Saud Abdulhamid knows a thing or two about blazing a trail. As the first Saudi footballer to play in one of Europe’s ‘Big Five’ leagues – first in Italy’s Serie A with Roma, and now with French side Lens in Ligue 1 – the defender has set the benchmark that others will surely follow.
Still only 26 years old, the former Al-Ittihad and Al-Hilal player has already earned 50 caps for his national team, and become a role model of modern days Saudi athletes competing on the global stage.
With an impact that goes beyond the full-time whistle, Abdulhamid is the face of Faces Beauty Middle East’s new campaign ‘The Beauty-ful Game’ — celebrating the intersection of beauty, identity, and self-expression through the lens of football. Here he talks to Esquire about his journey so far…
ESQUIRE: What does it mean to represent Saudi on the global stage not just as a player but as an ambassador for the culture?
Saud Abdulhamid: Playing for a prestigious club [like Roma and Lens] is a huge step in my career, but it’s also a responsibility that goes beyond football. It’s about being a bridge between two cultures—bringing the passion of Saudi football to Europe’s most respected leagues and showcasing the pride of Saudi Arabia to the world. Every time I step onto the pitch, I’m representing Saudi Arabia. I know that eyes back home in Saudi are watching, and that there are young Saudis dreaming of following in my footsteps. It’s about showing them that you can make it to the top, no matter where you start.
ESQ: What about off the field?
Saud Abdulhamid: Off the field, my role as an ambassador for Saudi culture is just as important. I want to use this platform to highlight the beauty, history, and modern growth of Saudi Arabia. Whether it’s through interactions with fans, media, or teammates, I’m proud to share my heritage, my values, and my story.
Through football, we can break down barriers and change perceptions. I want the world to see that Saudi Arabia is a country of ambition, progress, and hospitality where there’s a deep love for the game and an even deeper respect for others. That’s something I carry with me every day I wear my jersey.
ESQ: Saudi Arabia has changed so much in recent years. How has that transformation shaped your life, your career, and how you see the future?
Saud Abdulhamid: The country has undergone a massive transformation in recent years, and it’s impossible not to feel that shift in my own life and career. The country is evolving, and with it, there’s a new wave of opportunity especially for athletes and for football in particular. The investment in sports, the development of infrastructure, and the support for local talent have all created a different atmosphere. It’s inspiring to see how much the Saudi Pro League has grown, how young players are now dreaming bigger, and how there’s this sense of excitement and pride around football.
ESQ: What about on a personal level?
Saud Abdulhamid: Personally, this transformation has motivated me to push even harder. Growing up, we didn’t always have the resources or global recognition that we do now. But with things changing, the doors to the world are wide open. Saudi football is being taken more seriously on the global stage, and that feels incredible.
Looking ahead, the future is bright. I see a lot of young Saudis coming up who are more confident, more ambitious, and more ready to take on challenges. The progress that’s been made in terms of facilities, coaching, and international exposure is incredible. It feels like we’re on the verge of something big not just for Saudi football but for the entire region.
For me, it’s about capitalizing on this momentum. The country is embracing change, and I’m a part of that transformation. I want to continue pushing for even greater heights both for myself and for Saudi football, because I believe the best is yet to come.
ESQ: Football is all about confidence, discipline and self-expression. How do you carry those values off the pitch?
Saud Abdulhamid: Football has taught me a lot about confidence, discipline, and self-expression, and I try to carry those values off the pitch too. Confidence isn’t just about being sure of your ability on the field, but also in your daily life. It’s about trusting your decisions, believing in your path, and standing by what you believe in, even when others might doubt you.
Discipline, for me, goes beyond training sessions. It’s about being disciplined in how I approach life: maintaining a balance between work, family, and personal growth. It’s about showing up every day whether it’s on the pitch or in everyday challenges and putting in the effort to keep improving.
Self-expression is key, both on and off the field. Football gives me the freedom to express myself through my style of play, but I also try to express myself through how I carry myself and interact with others. It’s about being true to who I am, respecting others, and making sure that I’m always evolving as a person, not just as a player.
ESQ: Grooming and self-care have become an important form of self-expression for many men today. How do you see beauty and grooming playing a role in your life off the pitch?
Saud Abdulhamid: Self-expression doesn’t end when I leave the field. Grooming and self-care are another way to show confidence and personality. For me, it’s about keeping things simple but meaningful, being consistent in my routine, staying disciplined, and feeling comfortable in my own skin. Just like in football, it’s about authenticity and balance.
ESQ: You were the first Saudi football player to score in a UEFA club competition. What legacy do you want to leave for the next generation of Saudi athletes?
Saud Abdulhamid: I want my story to show that no dream is too big. From the National team to the World Cup, along with my journey in Europe, each step is proof that Saudi players can compete at the highest levels. My hope is that young Saudis will look at my story and believe that with patience, sacrifice, and discipline, they can do it too, and maybe even go further.