Saud Abdulhamid’s favourite ever footballer player is Dani Alves. It makes sense, he plays in the same position as superstar Brazilian, who is famous making those marauding runs up and down the flank.
But more than that Saud Abdulhamid brings that same steadfast, strong teamwork ethic to which ever team he plays for – whether it is his current Saudi league side, Al-Hilal, or the Saudi national team.
“The passion the Saudi people have for football is unlimited,” says Saud Abdulhamid. “We feel a deep connection when playing for the national team.” And it is that deep connection and love for football that the defender is looking to help fuel a passionate performance from the Green Falcons in Qatar 2022.
“As a person, I am optimistic. I believe we can achieve something special in Qatar, and beyond that we can leave a positive legacy of our football that will help develop the next generations.”
ESQ: What does it mean for you to be playing for the Saudi National Team?
It is a big honour and early childhood dream for any player to represent his home national team in such global event.
ESQ: What was the moment you remember falling in love with football, and wanting to work in it professionally?
Since I was at the first grade. I was playing football with childhood friends in my neighbourhood, then I joined Al Ittihad FC
ESQ: What makes the football culture so unique and special in Saudi Arabia?
Because it is a competitive sport, also it is the most popular game around the world. The passion of football for the Saudi people is unlimited and this passion is connected to the national team achievements from many years ago.
ESQ: Who are your footballing heroes?
My favourite player is the Brazilian Dani Alves. We play at the same position.
ESQ: Do you have a favourite World Cup moment?
My favourite moment is when me and my Saudi national team members qualified for the World Cup in Qatar.
ESQ: In the upcoming World Cup, what are your expectation for KSA?
I am optimistic by nature, I hope -as a team- to present unforgettable participation in this world cup since we have an outstanding squad and we have also exceptional manager. Moreover, the world cup 2022 is taking a place in geographically close area to the Saudi Arabia, thus, I expect to have massive support from our national team fans.
ESQ: What message, and legacy would you like to leave on the footballing culture of the KSA?
I hope that when my career is over I would have left a positive impact in football as sport both on and off the pitch. I hope to have helped Saudi win some big competitions, but also, I would like to be a role model regarding sports values and good manners. Moreover, it is important to leave a legacy that contribute in developing football for the coming generations.