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Saudi Arabia is a country known for it’s rich history and culture. In recent years, the country has made significant progress in the field of women’s sports. Despite facing cultural and societal push-back, Saudi women continue to break down barriers and excel in various sports. Here are ten notable Saudi female athletes who have made a significant impact in the field of sports:
Sarah Attar – Track and Field Athlete
Sarah Attar made history at the 2012 London Olympics when she became the first female athlete to represent Saudi Arabia in the Games. She competed in the 800 meters and the 1500 meters. Attar has continued to represent Saudi Arabia in various international competitions and is considered a pioneer for Saudi female athletes.
Lina Al-Maeena – Equestrian
Lina Al-Maeena is a prominent equestrian athlete in Saudi Arabia. She founded the Jeddah Equestrian Club, which is dedicated to promoting horse riding as a sport for women in the country. Al-Maeena has also participated in various international competitions, including the Longines Global Champions Tour.
Wojdan Shaherkani – Judo Athlete
Wojdan Shaherkani became the first Saudi woman to compete in the Olympics when she participated in the Judo event at the 2012 London Olympics. Although she lost her first match, her participation was considered a significant achievement for Saudi women.
Reema Abdullah – Football Player
Reema Abdullah is a former captain of the Saudi Arabian women’s national football team. She has represented Saudi Arabia in various international competitions and is considered one of the country’s most successful female footballers.
Lubna Al-Omair – Fencer
Lubna Al-Omair is a Fencer who has represented Saudi Arabia in various international competitions. She fenced at the 2016 Olympics in Women’s Individual Foil, becoming the first Saudi woman to do so.
Yara Al-Hogbani- Tennis Player
Yara Al-Hogbani is Saudi Arabia’s first women tennis player. At just 17 years old, is the first Saudi to represent the Kingdom professionally at international tournaments. She scored a big achievement by winning the semi-final in Bahrain in 2022.
Aseel Al-Hamad – Motor Racing Driver
Aseel Al-Hamad is a motor racing driver who made history in 2018 when she became the first Saudi woman to drive a Formula One car. She is also the first female board member of the Saudi Arabian Motor Federation.
Tahani Al-Qahtani – Volleyball Player
Tahani Al-Qahtani is a former captain of the Saudi Arabian women’s national volleyball team. She has represented Saudi Arabia in various international competitions and is considered one of the country’s most successful female volleyball players.
Mariam Saleh Binladen – Swimmer
Mariam BinLaden is Saudi swimmer and doctor. Bin Laden, succeeded in swimming from her country to the coast of Egypt through the Strait of Tiran in the Red Sea, becoming the first Arab and Saudi woman to achieve this feat.
Dalma Rushdi Malhas – Equestrian
Dalma Rushdi Malhas is an equestrian athlete who represented Saudi Arabia at the 2010 Youth Olympics. She won a bronze medal in the equestrian jumping event, becoming the first female athlete to win a medal for Saudi Arabia in an Olympic event.
In conclusion, these ten Saudi female athletes are just a few examples of the many women who have broken barriers and achieved success in the field of sports. Their achievements have not only inspired young women in Saudi Arabia but have also helped to promote women’s sports and gender equality in the country.