HRH Princess Delayel bint Nahar Al Saud, director of the Saudi Games, pens an op-ed for Vogue Arabia highlighting the transformative power of sports. She emphasizes how the Olympic spirit fosters unity, inspires excellence, and drives social change. Princess Delayel celebrates Saudi Arabia’s commitment to sports, citing the nation’s investment in athletes, the upcoming Saudi Games, and the vision for a brighter future fueled by shared human potential.
An independent investigator appointed by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) concluded that the agency did not show favoritism towards China in its handling of a doping case involving 23 Chinese swimmers. However, the investigator’s report also highlighted doubts expressed by WADA’s chief scientist about China’s explanation of how the athletes had been contaminated. Critics argue that the investigation was too narrow and that WADA should have conducted its own independent investigation.
Jamaican sprinter Shericka Jackson, a top contender for the 200m Olympic title, pulled up with an apparent injury during the Hungarian Athletics Grand Prix. The incident raises concerns for Jackson’s participation in the upcoming Paris Games, especially with fellow Jamaican Elaine Thompson-Herah already sidelined with an Achilles injury.
Dutch golfer Joost Luiten won a court case to secure a spot in the Paris Olympics, but his unused quota spot has already been filled, and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has denied a request to expand the field for him. Despite being ranked 40th in the Olympic rankings, Luiten was initially denied due to his lower world ranking, but his legal victory was ultimately overturned by the IOC’s decision.
Yemeni Olympic hopeful Yasameen Al-Raimi faces immense challenges in her quest to compete in Paris, training in a makeshift shooting range amidst the ongoing conflict in Yemen. Despite limited resources and a lack of support from authorities, Raimi perseveres, determined to raise the Yemeni flag high.
Maksym Halinichev, a promising Ukrainian boxer who won silver at the Youth Olympics, chose to fight for his country instead of pursuing his athletic dreams. He joined the army after the Russian invasion, eventually dying in battle in March 2023. His story exemplifies the sacrifices made by Ukrainian athletes who prioritized defending their homeland over personal ambitions.
American sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson, a favorite for Olympic gold in the women’s 100m, embodies the legacy of Florence Griffith Joyner, a trailblazing athlete whose style revolutionized track and field. Both athletes embrace creativity and personality, challenging traditional notions of femininity in sports.
The 2024 Paris Olympics are set to feature some of the most stylish and innovative athletic uniforms yet, with luxury brands and up-and-coming designers creating unique looks that celebrate national pride and athletic performance. From classic American tailoring to futuristic breakdancing gear, the Olympics are proving that sportswear can be both functional and fashionable.
Olympic champion Abhinav Bindra, along with other sports leaders and experts, expressed optimism about India’s potential to win a significant number of medals at the Paris Olympics. They highlighted the importance of a systematic approach, athlete mental fortitude, and government support in achieving this goal.
In the July/August 2024 issue, Vogue Arabia dedicates its pages to the world of sports, showcasing the intricate connection between athletics and fashion and highlighting the achievements of Arab women athletes. The cover features two iconic pioneers – Nawal El Moutawakel, the first Arab and Muslim woman to win Olympic gold, and Dunya Aboutaleb, the first Saudi woman to qualify for the Olympic Games. This issue explores the history of sports and fashion, the dedication required of athletes, and the inspiring stories of Arab women making their mark on the international stage.
