Serena sidelines World No. 1 Halep at Australian Open PAGE 18 TUESDAY, JANUARY 22, 2019

Sajjad, Chaudhry set up Qatar win over ASIAN CUP 2019 Saudi Arabia in ACC T20 in Muscat PAGE 19 QATAR VS IRAQ (7PM) Confident yet cautious Qatar to meet Iraq in Asian Cup tonight

Qatar coach Felix Sanchez (left) and midfielder Ali Afif during the AFC Asian Cup 2019 Round of 16 pre-match media conference in Abu Dhabi, UAE, on Monday. We need to be patient, says Ali Afif of Qatar’s future stars

DPA ABU DHABI

QATAR’S young squad are preparing to face Iraq in the knock-out stages of the Asian Qatar captain Hassan al Haydos trains with the team at the Al Nahyan Stadium in Abu Dhabi, UAE, ahead of the clash against Iraq. Cup on Tuesday but the home World Cup of 2022 remains AFC “Our form is good but we ever present in their thoughts. ABU DHABI This is the knockout stage and it all boils down must be on our toes against Eleven of coach Felix Qatar. Jordan went into their Sanchez’s party in the UAE are QATAR and Iraq will tread to one match. We too didn’t concede a goal in the match against Vietnam having under the age of 23 as the Gulf with caution when they meet group stage but all that can change in an instance. not conceded one goal but the State looks to develop talent in their AFC Asian Cup UAE This is something that we don’t want to happen and first one they did was enough for the challenge ahead. 2019 Round of 16 tie at the Al to eliminate them. “We need to be patient for Nahyan Stadium in Abu Dhabi the players know that there must be full concentration. “Qatar will be huge chal- these players,” 31-year-old on Tuesday. lenge as they are very adept in midfielder Ali Afif said Mon- Both teams advanced to Qatar coach Felix Sanchez changing tactics and forma- day ahead of the last 16 game the knockout stage in impres- tions. My message to the play- in Abu Dhabi. “I am very sive form, with Qatar winning match. One defeat and we go the match. All my players are ers is that we must be quick optimistic, I believe they their three Group E matches home,” said Sanchez, a situ- available and anyone of them to adjust to Qatar,” said the will have brilliant futures. while Iraq qualified with two ation which he said his team can be called into action.” Slovenian, who took charge of “They have proved in these wins and a draw, against the are mindful off. Katanec, however, doesn’t Iraq just four months ago. games they have good per- Islamic Republic of Iran. “We too didn’t concede a believe Qatar will make The four months, howev- formances and I hope they Qatar head coach Felix goal in the group stage but all changes. er, have been enough to show will make Qatari football very Sanchez and Iraqi counterpart that can change in an instance “We have analysed their him just how passionate Ira- proud in 2022.” Qatar’s Almoez Ali (left) celebrates scoring a goal during the AFC Srecko Katanec, however, said and we could be eliminated. matches and they always start qis are of football and he said Forward Almoez Ali has Asian Cup 2019 with Bassam Hisham. Almoez has scored the most their group stage record did This is something that we with the same set of play- his players are determined to stolen the headlines with a 7 goals so far in the Asian Cup. (REUTERS) not mean a thing now, espe- don’t want to happen and the ers. They are a very good side give their fans joy. leading seven goals so far while cially after Jordan having been players know that there must and we have to approach the “We have been taking it Akram Afif has provided several ing awarded the tournament ter how recent. knocked out by Vietnam. be full concentration.” match having fully under- one match at a time and I have assists – both are 22 and seem as hosts and even at the Asian “We’re going to try to play Jordan advanced from Qatar will go into the last stood what is required of us,” not pressured the players by destined for greater things than Cup success has previously a good game, we know in front Group A without conceding a 16 tie on a high, having defeat- said Katanec. saying we must win. The play- the Qatar league where they been limited. of us we have a very tough op- single goal but the one they did ed Lebanon 2-0, DPR Korea Iraq, semi-finalists in the ers, however, are determined currently ply their trade. Under Sanchez a youthful ponent but the team is confi- against Vietnam ultimately end- 6-0 and a tough Saudi Arabia 2015 AFC Asian Cup, have also to give their countrymen “Akram is young but he squad crushed Group E with dent and we’ll try our best to ed their campaign as the South- 2-0, with Almoez Ali scoring enjoyed good form thus far as joy and we will give our best is old in his mind, everyone three wins, including over have a good result,” he said. east Asian side won the penalty seven of their 10 goals. they came from behind to de- against Qatar.” knows him in Asia and now in powerhouse Saudi Arabia, “All the teams are in the shootout 4-2 on Sunday. “The group stage results feat Vietnam 3-2, cruised past Iraq too have all players Europe,” Afif said. and has not yet conceded a same position, it doesn’t mat- “This is the knockout stage have given us confidence and Yemen 3-0 before the battling available, ensuring a block- Qatar had never qualified goal. But he was quick to ter what you do in the first and it all boils down to one we have prepared well for 0-0 draw with Iran. buster end to the Round of 16. for the World Cup before be- play down the past, no mat- stage, it’s like a final.” Japan down Saudi Arabia; Australia survive shoot-out DPA ABU DHABI

JAPAN edged Saudi Arabia 1-0 in an Asian Cup clash of the ti- tans which failed to live up to its billing on Monday while reigning champions Australia had Mat Ryan to thank for two saves in a 4-2 penalty shoot- out victory over Uzbekistan. Results Japan 1 (Tomiyasu 20) bt Saudi Arabia 0 Australia 0 Uzbekistan 0 Australia win 4-2 on penalties

Takehiro Tomiyasu’s header against the run of play eliminat- ed Saudi Arabia from the last 16 and booked the record winners a last eight date with Vietnam. Australia went through on Japan celebrate after defeating Saudi Arabia in the 2019 AFC Asian Cup in Sharjah on Monday. (EPA-EFE) Australia celebrate winning the penalty shoot-out against Uzbekistan in Al Ain on Monday. (EPA-EFE) penalties following a dismal 0-0 draw and await the winner ing his spot in Sharjah. throughout but Japan keeper Bulayhi, with a free header, angle from Uzbekistan’s top eran keeper Ignatiy Nesterov. tage. But Ryan immediately from the hosts UAE playing The reassembled team took Shuichi Gonda scarcely had couldn’t hit the target. scorer Eldor Shomurodov. A tense period of extra- halted Islom Tukhtakhujaev Kyrgyzstan in Abu Dhabi later. time to settle but snatched the save to make. Japan will continue their The Socceroos needed a time brought no further to level and his subsequent Japan coach Hajime Mori- lead with their first chance when Muto spurned a breaka- bid for a fifth continental full hour to carve out a decent chances to leave penalties the save from Marat Bikmaev gave yasu made 10 changes to the Tomiyasu nodded in a 20th way but even when Saudi Ara- crown in Dubai on Thursday. chance, which Rhyan Grant decider and Nesterov, playing Hertha Berlin winger Leckie rotated side which defeated Uz- minute corner in a rare attack. bia started creating chances Australia made a slow start headed over, before returning in his record fifth Asian the chance to seal a spot in the bekistan to top Group F game The three-time champion Salem Al Dawsari, from the in Al Ain and Brighton keeper winger Mathew Leckie’s shot Cup, saved from Aziz Behich last eight, again in Al Ain, on with only Yoshinori Muto keep- Saudis dominated possession middle of the box, and Ali al Ryan stayed big to save on the was scrambled clear by vet- to give his side the early advan- Friday. Sports Tuesday, January 22, 2019 17 ‘Amazing’ World Cup 2022 Qatar will be a great success: Mourinho

SC.QA DOHA

JOSE MOURINHO, one of world football’s most success- ful and high-profile manag- ers, visited Doha this week and was taken on a personal tour of the Qatar 2022 head- quarters with Chief of Tour- nament Readiness & Experi- ence Group Nasser al Khater. Following the tour he spoke exclusively to sc.qa. EXCERPTS

What are your first reac- tions to the plans for Qa- tar 2022? I’m very impressed. Knowing your country, I cannot say I am very surprised because I was expecting something amazing. But there were some One of world football’s most successful and high-profile managers Jose Mourinho inspects the Al Wakrah Stadium. (Right) Mounrinho with an official at the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy pavilion. question marks that a football manager can have before he the same training ground with- location, the short distances the future of other countries. compact nature of this with the cup. That is unreal, understands all of the dynam- out moving. The weather won’t for countries [to travel to Qa- You have thought so much tournament will be – and even at club level. It is fantastic. ic – and that is what makes be so hard…so I think it’s going tar] from around the world, the about every detail. It looks how disruptive can exces- me really amazed by the level to be a fantastic event. I just travelling times [for players and to me like legacy is not just a sive travelling be? And for the fans too… of organisation. I believe that hope that the football itself can fans], the prime time (viewing) word for you, but really some- Even in pre-season for us in For supporters it can also be many of us in Europe, players, give this amazing organisation for so many billions because of Jose view thing that you are working on. Europe, which is a small pe- something magnificent. For coaches, clubs – we had some what you deserve. your place in the globe. “I think it’s going to be a I’m so positively surprised. I riod, we don’t like to travel – we example in Russia you are lo- question marks – but when There are many things that you expect that (in 2022) I’m go- like to have a base. But because cated in Moscow, then to see you arrive here you don’t have It will be the first FIFA don’t immediately think about fantastic event. I just hope ing to be a club coach, and of commercial reasons, we are the other games you have to go question marks anymore. World Cup to take place in when an Asian country gets the that the football itself can then I will probably be not so always travelling. We always to Rostov, or Saint Petersburg The facilities are amazing. You the Arab world, and just World Cup, but then you real- give this amazing organisation happy that in the middle of the try to reduce the travelling – and you have to travel a lot. thought about every detail. The the second in Asia. How ise there are so many positives. what you deserve.” season my players are travel- time, and find the right facility. Here you can also, as a sup- number of training places for important is it that Asia ling to the World Cup, but I I think this is going to be the porter, be based in a certain all the teams, the beauty and has its chance again? How important do you have to admit the event has first time that everyone chooses place and see all the matches security of all the stadiums, the After watching with incredible think the legacy plans are many countries invest so much everything to be amazing. their location, their hotel, their that your team is playing. short distances between every attention the video that you for this tournament? in the World Cup, but then af- training ground – and that will So I see lots of positives that to stadium, no travelling – the have, I realised certain things. Your concept of legacy goes ter that there are empty stadi- As a manager, how ap- be your home until you are be honest I was not aware of teams can stay for a month in For example, the concept of the deep. It goes deep because so ums. No legacy; no influence of pealing do you think the knocked out, or you go home before I came. AFC ASIAN CUP 2019 Aspire illustrates how fabulous Qatar 2022 World Cup would be: Lokomotiv Moscow coach AYENI OLUSEGUN DOHA

THAT Qatar’s Aspire Zone boasts some of the world’s finest sport training facili- ties and offers unique sport, sports medicine, research and educational facilities is well established. Almost all sports entities and personali- ties visiting Aspire have spo- ken highly of the facilities the place offers. But when a coach South Korea’s coach Paulo Bento (right) gives his instructions to his players during their match against of a football team from a China at the Al Nahyan Stadium in Abu Dhabi. (AFP) country, which recently host- ed the 2018 World Cup, terms the facilities as ‘world class’, it does underline the status of Impressive South Korea Aspire all the more. With top Russian clubs From (left) Spartak Moscow coach Oleg Kononov, Zenit St. Petersburg’s Sergei Semak, Tournament Crea- having descended at the pris- tive DIrector Gavril Gardeev, Lokomotiv Moscow coach Yuri Semin, and Rostov FC’s Valeriy Karpin at the march on with belief tine Aspire for a four-team Aspire Academy on Monday. (HANSON K JOSEPH) tournament, Lokomotiv Mos- AFC cow coach Yuri Semin was DUBAI PIZZI SET TO LEAVE SAUDI AFTER CUP EXIT among those who toured the Aspire Zone and the Russian THE Taeguk Warriors last ABU DHABI: Saudi Arabia coach Juan Antonio Pizzi expects to seemed moved. lifted the AFC Asian Cup title leave his position after his team was eliminated from the Asian The 71-year-old Semin, in 1960, having also won the Cup against Japan on Monday. “My job with the national team who is in Qatar for the first inaugural edition four years is done, nobody talked with me about renewing my contract,” time with Lokomotiv, hailed earlier. media reports quoted the 50-year-old Argentine as saying. Aspire Zone facilities as Since then, Korea Republic “I still don’t know anything about my next challenge.” ‘world class.’ Adding that this have finished runners-up four Pizzi led Saudi Arabia in a disappointing 2018 World Cup in Rus- only provides a prelude to times, with the most recent in sia and saw his team’s Asian Cup campaign end in a 1-0 loss how well- organised the 2022 2015, where they lost to host to Japan in Sharjah. He most notably led Chile to victory in the World Cup would be. nation Australia 2-1. 2016 Copa America. (DPA) “I know members of the Korea Republic have been Qatar Football Association impressive thus far, power- “We know that we are last-gasp 1-0 win over India. and the organisers of the ing to the top of Group D with candidates but I think we are After a week of recupera- World Cup (Supreme Com- wins over Philippines, Kyrgyz not the only favourites in this tion and preparation, Soukup mittee for Delivery & Legacy) Republic and China PR - re- competition.” believes his side can take on were in Russia for the 2018 sults which head coach Paulo Bahrain head coach Miro- the two-time champions if his FIFA World Cup. They must Bento believes will drive his slav Soukup is looking forward players perform as they did have done their homework, so team against Bahrain. to their AFC Asian Cup Round against India. there should be no problem “It’s always good motiva- of 16 clash with Korea Repub- “We are giving ourselves come 2022.” tion to win all the games in the lic at the Rashid Stadium on motivation because nobody is “It is interesting to see group stage,” said Bento, Tuesday, stating his players pressuring us,” said Soukup. Qatar where the next World “All the victories that we are hungry to make their mark “My team has worked really Cup will be held and to see achieved were without con- on the Continental stage. hard in the preparation. how they are preparing. It Spartak Moscow celebrate beating Rostov FC in their first game of the Match Premier Cup at the Aspire ceding goals, so that shows the The West Asians will be “We are pressuring our- just shows how well and Academy on Monday. Zenit will take on Lokomotiv Moscow on Tuesday. consistency of the team. making their first appearance selves, because my players are spectacularly organised the “We will try in this next in the knockout stage since hungry to achieve results and 2022 World Cup would be. you can see any better. We The four-team $200,000 both countries, build bridges phase of the competition to 2004, ending that campaign they are ready. There are many advantages, don’t have a centre like this in Match Premier Cup Tourna- and more Russians will be in- play with the same confidence with their best-ever AFC “After our last game the fields are magnificent Russia unfortunately.” ment kicked-off on Monday as terested in Qatar as they fol- and try to do our best to reach Asian Cup achievement of against India, we had six days and they have made us feel at Four top Russian clubs Spartak Moscow took on Ros- low this tournament.” the quarter-finals.” fourth place. to prepare our team, so we home,” he added. Zenit St Petersburg, Rostov tov while Zenit will battle Loko- Qatar has been a great desti- He also brushed off talk Bahrain booked their spot are not tired. I hope that we Meanwhile, Rostov coach FC, Lokomotiv Moscow and motiv Moscow on Tuesday. nation for European clubs dur- that Korea Republic, who will in the UAE 2019 last 16 as one can repeat our performance Valeriy Karpin while praising Spartak Moscow are holding a The Match Premier Cup ing mid-season breaks thanks be without influential mid- of the four best third-placed against India, maybe the game the Aspire Zone, buttressed training camp in Qatar while Creative Producer Gavril Gar- to its’ modern infrastructure fielder Ki Sung-yueng, are fa- teams, courtesy of a 1-1 draw will not be easy for Korea Re- Semin’s claim saying, “It’s a the Russian Premier League deev also added, “This tour- and comfortable weather dur- vourites for the title. with host nation UAE and a public and will be dramatic.” fantastic centre. I don’t think is in recess for the winter. nament can help integrate ing winter season.

Cristiano Ronaldo refused special treatment for Madrid tax fraud hearing

MADRID: Cristiano Ronaldo document dated January 18 and ous onlookers. a hefty fine after Spanish tax year spent nine trophy-laden “great fame,” he won’t “compro- will have to enter a Madrid unveiled on Monday, the 33-year- The court session will start at authorities and the player’s advi- years at Madrid. The president mise security” when he walks up courthouse on foot on Tuesday old Juventus forward and former 9:50 am time (0850 GMT) and a sors made a deal to settle claims of the court in northern Madrid, the stairs to the courthouse. after he was refused special Real Madrid player was denied spokesman said Ronaldo could he hid income generated from Juan Pablo Gonzalez-Herrero, said That means Ronaldo will not be treatment, officials at the court special security measures that be sentenced on the same day or image rights when he played for in the court document that he able to drive into a court car park where he will appear for tax would have allowed him to avoid in coming days. Real Madrid. had refused Ronaldo the special away from the cameras, as he fraud said. According to a court walking past journalists and curi- Ronaldo is expected to be given The five-time world player of the measures because despite his had requested. (AFP) 18 Tuesday, January 22, 2019 Sports Serena sidelines top seed Halep; Djokovic battles past Medvedev z Raonic accounts for Zverev z Osaka beats Sevastova z Svitolina downs Keys z Pliskova goes past Muguruza

AFP/REUTERS Court’s record 24, and it looked MELBOURNE like French Open champion Halep would be another easy A fired-up Serena Williams I’m such a fighter, I never scalp after a first set rout. slugged past world number give up. It was an intense But the nuggety Romanian one Simona Halep on Monday match and there were isn’t world number one for as she inches ever closer to a nothing and she bounced back 24th Grand Slam title, while some incredible points to set up a huge power struggle Novak Djokovic survived a but I love playing tennis that Williams finally won with battle to stay on course for and being out here and I a break in the 7th game of the a record seventh Australian third set. Open crown. love this court, it’s really “I really needed to elevate In a towering perfor- cool to be back. my game. She’s a great play- mance, the American great er,” said Williams. scored her biggest win since Serena Williams after Fourth seed Naomi Osaka, having a baby to grind down defeating Simona Halep meanwhile, was composed as the Romanian top seed 6-1, she beat crafty Latvian Ana- 4-6, 6-4 and move into a quar- stasija Sevastova, emerging ter-final against seventh seed RESULTS (ROUND 4) from an error-strewn first to Karolina Pliskova. win 4-6, 6-3, 6-4. MEN’S SINGLES Milos Raonic (CAN x16) bt Alexander Zverev (GER “I think the biggest thing x4) 6-1, 6-1, 7-6 (7/5) for me is the belief. I think I Lucas Pouille (FRA x28) bt Borna Coric (CRO x11) believe in myself more this 6-7 (4/7), 6-4, 7-5, 7-6 (7/2) year than I have last year,” It was definitely a Kei Nishikori (JPN x8) bt Pablo Carreno-Busta (ESP x23) 6-7 (8/10), 4-6, 7-6 (7/4), 6-4, 7-6 (10/8) said the bubbly 21-year-old, physical battle. It was Novak Djokovic (SRB x1) bt Daniil Medvedev who beat Williams in the US difficult to get through (RUS x15) 6-4, 6-7 (5/7), 6-2, 6-3 Open final last year. She next faces ambitious him. In these kinds of WOMEN’S SINGLES Naomi Osaka (JPN x4) bt Anastasija Sevastova sixth seed Elina Svitolina, who matches you just have to (LAT x13) 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 needed to dig deep to over- hang in there. Elina Svitolina (UKR x6) bt Madison Keys (USA x17) come 17th seeded Madison 6-2, 1-6, 6-1 Keys 6-2, 1-6, 6-1. Novak Djokovic on his match Karolina Pliskova (CZE x7) bt Garbine Muguruza (ESP x18) 6-3, 6-1 Svitolina was a quarter- with Daniil Medvedev Serena Williams (USA x16) bt Simona Halep finalist at Melbourne Park last (ROM x1) 6-1, 4-6, 6-4. year and has set her sights high after her breakthrough in win- Czech Pliskova is anoth- ning the WTA Finals Singa- er form player, winning the The World No. 1 will con- pore, targeting a Grand Slam warm-up Brisbane Interna- tinue his bid for a hat-trick of win and world number one. tional and easing past two- Grand Slam titles and a record Earlier on Rod Laver Arena, time Grand Slam winner Gar- Serena Williams of the US reacts after defeating Simona Halep of seventh at Melbourne Park Zverev self-destructed to slump bine Muguruza 6-3, 6-1 to set Romania in their women’s singles fourth round match at the Austral- against eighth seed Nishikori. out at the hands of Raonic. up the Williams clash. ian Open in Melbourne on Monday. (EPA-EFE) “Since I guess my next op- The German has routinely “I’m such a fighter, I never ponent is watching, I’m feeling been anointed as the flag- give up,” declared Williams af- after a disputed call when get through him,” the Serbian fanstastic, never felt better in bearer for the next generation, ter the epic encounter. leading the final tiebreak 8-5 world number one said. “In my life,” 31-year-old Djokovic but again failed to live up to his “It was an intense match against Japan’s Kei Nishikori. these kinds of matches you joked in his on-court interview reputation and has now missed and there were some incred- He failed to win another just have to hang in there.” with Jim Courier. out on making the last eight of a ible points but I love playing point and was booed as he The night after Roger major 14 times in 15 attempts. tennis and being out here and stormed off Margaret Court Federer was stunned by Greek Elevate game So furious was he with his I love this court, it’s really cool Arena, angrily throwing his tyro Stefanos Tsitsipas, there Dominant Williams over- form, the 21-year-old had a ma- to be back.” kit bag after losing a 5hr 5min was another sniff of an up- shadowed them all and is jor temper tantrum in the sec- While Williams stayed marathon 6-7 (8/10), 4-6, 7-6 set at Rod Laver Arena as overwhelming favourite to ond set, whacking his racquet calm, highly-rated German (7/4), 6-4, 7-6 (10/8). 22-year-old Medvedev rocked win an eighth Australian ti- into the ground eight times to fourth seed Alexander Zverev Nishikori will now play six- the Serb with a furious assault tle, with defending champion leave it a crumpled mess. lost the plot against Canadian time champion Djokovic, who of power hitting. Caroline Wozniacki and sec- “I just tried to stay com- Milos Raonic, crashing 6-1, 6-1, dropped a set for the second Yet the Russian wearied in ond seed Angelique Kerber posed and it worked out well 7-6 (7/5) and demolishing a match in a row before seeing the constant attrition, and top already out. for me today,” said cool 16th racquet in a massive meltdown. off 15th-seeded Daniil Medve- seed Djokovic ended up cruising She has been in ominous seed Raonic, who will now face And Spain’s Pablo Carreno Novak Djokovic of Serbia celebrates defeating Daniil Medvedev of dev 6-4, 6-7 (5/7), 6-2, 6-3. to victory, having passed easily form at Melbourne Park as Frenchman Lucas Pouille after Busta also let the pressure get Russia in the men’s singles fourth round match at the Australian “It was definitely a physi- his biggest test at what had been she seeks one more major title he battled past Croat Borna to him, ranting at the umpire Open in Melbourne on Monday. (EPA-EFE) cal battle. It was difficult to a sweat-free tournament. to put her alongside Margaret Coric in four tough sets. Busta blood vessel! Spaniard sorry as tantrum mars Nishikori epic Stefanos Tsitsipas, a Greek AFP He was ahead 8-5 in the and was jeered loudly after tennis god in the making MELBOURNE first-to-10-point deciding game launching his kit and racquets when he became embroiled in towards the exit. AFP PABLO Carreno Busta apolo- a long argument with umpire It overshadowed marathon ATHENS gised after he stormed off Thomas Sweeney of Australia man Nishikori’s epic recovery court and angrily threw his kit after a wrong call of out. from two sets down to set up CONQUEROR of his idol bag after losing a five-hour, He completely lost it after a last eight clash against top- Roger Federer in the last 16 of five-set epic to Japan’s Kei Ni- the point was awarded, cor- ranked Novak Djokovic. the Australian Open, the rise shikori at the Australian Open rectly, to Nishikori who had “Obviously I’m very sad, of Greek youngster Stefanos on Monday. played a winner despite the no, because after five hours Tsitsipas is one that appears The Spanish 23rd seed bad call, but Carreno Busta fighting, after five hours’ destined to carry him to the Rising high said he was “so sorry,” after thought the point should have match, the way that I leave top of the tennis world. being booed off when his emo- been replayed. from the court wasn’t cor- He made no secret of his Conqueror of his idol tions boiled over following a The incandescent Span- rect, and I’m so sorry, because immense respect for the Swiss Roger Federer, the rise disputed call in the dying mo- iard lost the next four points that’s not me,” Carreno Busta star, whose posters coated the of Greek youngster ments of the match. and the fourth-round match told reporters. walls of Tsitsipas’ bedroom as It was never-say-die Nishi- a child, but the 20-year-old Stefanos Tsitsipas is kori’s third five-setter of the Athenian didn’t allow senti- one that appears tournament, the second time ment to stand in his way. he came from two sets down “He’s a legend of our destined to carry and his second triumph via a sport,” Tsitsipas said ahead him to the top of final set 10-point tie-break, of his clash with the 20-time the tennis world. newly introduced for this Grand Slam champion. year’s tournament. “If I thought about it now The 6-7 (8/10), 4-6, 7-6 it’s insane I’m in this position (7/4), 6-4, 7-6 (10/8) win took where I can actually play him. a draining 5hr 5min after an It’s really emotional.” Stefanos Tsitsipas during a practice session at the Australian Open in Melbourne on Monday. (EPA-EFE) opening set that alone lasted But Tsitsipas showed scant 76 minutes. regard for the world number timately led to a maiden title in his career. TsitsiFast “I don’t know what to say three – the double reigning at Stockholm in October, the “A very special connec- Stefanos, the eldest of four now. Very tough match. Very champion in Melbourne – on first-ever for a Greek player tion” links father and son siblings, first tasted success great match today,” Nishikori Sunday, playing the brand of on the ATP circuit. says Stefanos, for whom fam- in 2016 when he won the said. tennis that has propelled him “I always thought it would ily provides a welcome res- Wimbledon boys’ doubles ti- Nishikori had already to 15th in the rankings after take me longer to get there. pite from the rigours of pro- tle and rose to the top of the spent eight hours and 42 min- barely two seasons on tour. But I’ve worked hard and it’s fessional tennis. junior rankings. utes on court in his first three He will climb yet further not a surprise to me,” a confi- Armed with a formidable He is a young man seem- matches, including a second- following his best perfor- dent Tsitsipas said at the time. one-handed backhand and a ingly without limits, per- round clash that went the full mance to date at a Grand powerful serve, the Greek’s sonified by the #TsitsiFast distance to a final set tiebreak Slam, and the Greek intends Sporting family trajectory has been care- hashtag – a favourite of the against Ivo Karlovic. to continue building on a It’s not just the physical fully overseen by his father, a Greek’s on social media. Nishikori warmed up for breakthrough year in 2018. prowess of the 1.93m (6ft 4in) coach at a club in a chic Ath- The angelic-looking Tsitsi- the Australian Open by winning His reward for felling Tsitsipas that sets him apart. ens suburb, but also by his pas also runs his own Youtube the title at Brisbane and has Federer is a quarter-final, he “Stefanos is in the process of mother, a former profession- channel, offering a glimpse into now reached the quarter-finals is the first Greek ever to reach acquiring a great mindset, al player in the Soviet Union. his life behind the scenes while for the fourth time. this stage of a Grand Slam, which is largely down to dif- Julia Salnikova is the also transporting his fans from In the first round he ad- on Tuesday against Roberto ficult wins he’s earned,” his daughter of an Olympic foot- tournament to tournament. vanced after qualifier Kamil Bautista Agut. father and coach Apostolos ball gold medallist, and she His fledgling “A Greek Majchrzak retired due Tsitsipas burst onto the Tsitsipas told AFP recently. too is fully integrated into the Abroad” podcast gives fur- to muscle cramping with scene by reaching his first tour- While he joined the sporting culture that perme- ther insight and Tsitsipas is the Japanese leading 3-6, level final at Barcelona last Mouratoglou Academy, a ates the Tsitsipas family. an aspiring photographer as 6-7(6/7), 6-0, 6-2, 3-0 after April, and then finishing run- renowned producer of elite The secret “is to gradually well. He documents his work also dropping the opening ner-up to Rafael Nadal at the players located on the Cote set goals and make the player as “Steve the Hawk” on Ins- two sets. He then beat Kar- Rogers Cup in Canada where d’Azur, in 2015, Apostolos aware of his responsibilities tagram, a username befitting lovic 6-3, 7-6 (7/6), 5-7, 5-7, he claimed four top-10 scalps. has stayed at his son’s side to make them progress” re- one soaring towards the sum- Kei Nishikori (left) of Japan is greeted by Pablo Carreno Busta of 7-6 (10/7) and Joao Sousa 7-6 Those impressive runs ul- and remains a pivotal figure peats Apostolos. mit of men’s tennis. Spain soon after their men’s singles fourth round match. (EPA-EFE) (7/1), 6-1, 6-2. Sports Tuesday, January 22, 2019 19 ACC Western Region Twenty20 cricket Australia call Not just Kohli, up in-form Patterson for beware of Rohit Sajjad, Chaudhry Lanka Tests AFP & Shikhar too, SYDNEY

IN-FORM Kurtis Patterson Taylor cautions set up Qatar’s win was added to Australia’s squad on Monday for the upcoming Tests against Sri Lanka as se- teammates lectors try to fix a batting line- up that failed to fire during the over Saudi Arabia home Tests against India. IANS Since the last year, the right- The 25-year-old New NAPIER handed batsman has scored South Wales batsman scored 1135 runs at an average of back-to-back centuries for a AHEAD of the five-ODI rub- 112.91 in the ODIs. Not to any- Cricket Australia XI in Hobart ber against India, starting here one’s surprise, Rohit Sharma is Al Annabi start with four-wicket triumph in Muscat last week. Wednesday, former New Zea- second on the list. Since 2018, National selector Trevor land skipper Ross Taylor praised Rohit has hit 1215 runs at 71.47. TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK Hohns said Patterson had touring captain Virat Kohli as The left-handed batsman, DOHA been “pushing his case for se- the best ‘one-day player’ while Dhawan, who didn’t have the lection for some time”. cautioning his side against sole- best of ODIs against Australia, RIDING an impressive bowling perfor- “We have been asking bat- ly focussing on the leader as the sits at the fourth place with 952 mance, Qatar posted a fine four-wicket ters around the country to Men-in-Blue have many more runs at an average of above 45. victory over Saudi Arabia in their open- score hundreds if they want to match winners. Like Kohli, Taylor too has ing match of the ACC Western Region be considered for selection,” While Kohli has enjoyed been in sublime form, par- Twenty20 Cricket Tournament in Muscat, Hohns added in a statement. a purple patch in the 50-over ticularly in ODIs. After finish- Oman on Monday. “Given Kurtis’ consistent format in recent years, the In- ing 2018 as his country’s most Qatar’s Tamoor Sajjad, who snared performances for NSW and dian openers Rohit Sharma prolific run-scorer, he began three for 11 in his four-over spell with his two unbeaten centuries in and Shikhar Dhawan have also the new year with a bang too, one maiden, was declared the man of the last week’s tour match against been responsible for giving the amassing 281 runs from three match. our upcoming opponent, Sri side a great start on most oc- digs against Sri Lanka to top the Qatar Cricket Association President Lanka, we believe he deserves casions. The middle order led batting charts. Yousef Jeham al Kuwari congratulated to be added to the Test squad.” by former skipper Mahendra Having done enough in the the national team on a strong start and Singh Dhoni has displayed their past year, the 34-year old said the superb victory over bitter rivals Saudi prowess while chasing big totals he knows he has to start from Arabia. in the just-concluded ODI series the scratch against India. “We are extremely pleased with the Warner to undergo against Australia. “I’ve worked on my game national team’s splendid four-wicket tri- Taylor, New Zealand’s sec- and try and rotate the strike umph in the opening match in the ACC surgery on injured ond most prolific run-scorer of early and be as busy as I can. Western Region T20 in Oman and that elbow today all time behind only Stephen Different shots against spinners too over Saudi Arabia. We hope that the Fleming, pointed out that focus- at different stages have maybe Qatar team will keep improving its perfor- AFP ing solely on Kohli may back- evolved my game in a positive SYDNEY fire. “He’s a sensational player, way,” he added. BRIEF SCORES the best one-day player going Taylor, however gave a BANNED former Australian around, quite easily,” Taylor scare to the Kiwis ahead of the QATAR BEAT SAUDI ARABIA BY FOUR WICKETS vice-captain David Warner is told stuff.co.nz, as quoted by the India series after dislocating his Saudi Arabia: 126 all out in in 20 overs (Sajid Imran Cheema expected to undergo minor ICC website. little finger but insisted that he 43, Muhammad Adnan 38; Noman Sarwar 2/16, Tamoor Sajjad surgery on his elbow on Tues- “It’s easy to get caught up has fully recovered now. 3/11, Muhammad Nadeem 1/43, Inam-Ul-Haq 1/13, Iqbal day after returning home in him. (But) you’ve got two “It’s fine. It looks a lot sorer Hussain Chaudhry 3/26) from the Bangladesh Premier pretty good openers at the top, than it is - no break, but the liga- Qatar: 126 for seven in 15.3 overs (Faisal Javed Khan 43, League with an injury. Sharma and Dhawan, before he ments were a bit sore,” he said. Zaheeruddeen Ibrahim 21, Mohammad Tanveer 33 runs , Noman Sarwar 11 not out; Ibrar-Ul Haq 1/23, Usman Ali 1/21, Warner, alongside former gets in.” Meanwhile, all-rounder Muhammad Nadeem 3/16, Faizal Khan 1/21) skipper Steve Smith and bats- The past year saw Virat Doug Bracewell was looking Man of the match: Tamoor Sajjad (Qatar) man Cameron Bancroft, was Kohli hammering many re- forward to the challenge of play- suspended from international cords; with the one of entering ing the No.2 ranked ODI side cricket over a ball-tampering the 10,000 run-club in ODIs in the run-up to the ICC Men’s mance and continue to win matches. We scandal during a Test match sitting at the top. Not only this, Cricket World Cup 2019. “We’re wish more successes to the team,” Kuwari in South Africa last March. the India skipper got named as going to find out where we are added in his statement. The 32-year-old returned the captain of the ESPNcricinfo as a team against one of the best The decision to put Saudi Arabia in to to Australia last week fol- 2018 ODI team of the year too. teams in the world,” he said. bat first by Qatar skipper Inam-Ul-Haq was lowing a stint with the Syl- justified as Noman Sarwar dealt out two Tamoor Sajjad of Qatar receives the man of the match award after his team beat Saudi Ara- het Sixers in the Bangladesh quick blows. Saudi Arabia, from two down bia by four wickets in the ACC Western Region T20 cricket in Muscat, Oman on Monday. Twenty20 tournament after for eight in two overs, could never recover he reported pain in his right and folded up at 126 off the final ball. reach 126. Iqbal Hussain Chaudhry also which included eight hits to the fence, elbow. The Saudi collapse was accelerated grabbed three wickets, while Inam-Ul- and they lost three more players in quick Warner’s elbow will be Sajjad who removed three more players Haq and Muhammad Nadeem shared two succession. But Mohammed Tanveer and assessed in Melbourne on to have the rivals struggling at five for 39. wickets. Noman Sarwar held the innings together Tuesday, before he is ex- Saudi opener Sajid Imran Cheema sought Qatar also suffered an early setback as to see Qatar home in 15.3 overs. pected to undergo minor sur- to repair the damage to some extent. He they lost Kamran Khan for six. They how- Tanveer blasted two sixes and three gery, cricket.com.au reported smashed two sixes and two fours in his ever responded to it with an addition of fours to collect 33 not out off 18 balls, Monday. 41-ball 47. 47 runs through the second-wicket stand while Sarwar’s unbeaten 11 had two fours. Cricket Australia’s web- After Cheema was ninth out at 88, shared by Faisal Javed Khan and Zaheer- Muhammad Nadeem had three four site said Warner’s condition Muhammad Adnan offered a spirited uddeen Ibrahim, who hit 21 with two sixes 16, while Ibrar-Ul Haq, Faizal Khan and was not believed to be as se- rearguard resistance and collected 38 and a four in 18 balls. Usman Ali bagged one wicket apiece. rious as the elbow injury sus- not out with four sixes and two bounda- The winners experienced a mini slump Qatar will next take on Kuwait on tained by Smith, also in the ries. His 15-ball effort helped the team after Khan went out for a brisk 26-ball 43, Tuesday. Bangladesh tournament. Ross Taylor of New Zealand: In rich form. SOUQ WAQIF EQUESTRIAN FESTIVAL England favourites but danger lurks in West Indies

REUTERS The jury is still out on and Stuart Broad but it is not when you play against them LONDON England opener Keaton Jen- out of the question that left- and that means we’ve got to nings and while he started armer Sam Curran will be be on top form to be able to WITH eight wins from their England’s 3-0 win in Sri Lan- thrown the new ball, one that try and challenge them.” past nine Tests, a three-match ka well, scoring a century in should offer plenty of swing. Anderson will relish get- series in the West Indies the opening match, his form Victory for captain Root’s ting his hands on the Dukes should hold no fears for Joe has dipped since. side would be the perfect ball after toiling in Sri Lanka, Root’s buoyant England team He will almost certain- way to start what could be a but so should the West Indies - but things are never straight- ly open the batting with memorable year, with a home attack. forward in the Carribean sun- Rory Burns in the first Test, World Cup and an Ashes se- In Gabriel and Roach, shine. which starts in Barbados on ries looming. they have a potent duo while A struggling West Indies Wednesday, but needs to of- Yet whatever the state of pacey youngsters Alzarri Jo- sit eighth out of 10 in the ICC’s fer convincing evidence that West Indies cricket, on and off seph and Oshane Thomas Test standings and lost 2-0 to he is the man for the job in the field, a visit from England will hope to make a name for Bangladesh last time out with this year’s home Ashes series usually gets the juices flowing. themselves. the red ball yet England have against Australia. “Whenever we come here, The hosts’ unreliable bat- won only one of nine series Jonny Bairstow, who you get the feeling that West ting will also be bolstered by there in the past 50 years - un- scored a century in a warmup Indies really want to beat Eng- the return of left-hander Dar- der Michael Vaughan in 2004. game, will get the chance to land,” Anderson, part of the ren Bravo after a two-year ab- The most recent series be- establish himself at number 2004 squad, told The Guard- sence. Bravo, who has a Test tween the nations, in England three. ian. average of 40, was cast aside in 2017, was supposed to be England’s bowling attack “It’s something that’s after a row with the West In- a walkover for the hosts yet will once again be under- been ingrained in them. You dies Cricket but is now set for it was surprisingly close and pinned by James Anderson can see it in the players’ eyes his 50th match.

Victory for captain Root’s side would be the perfect way to start what could be a memorable year, with a home World Cup and an Ashes series looming.

offered some hope for those desperate to see a revival of West Indies Test cricket. Young batsman Shai Hope announced himself in that se- ries, scoring two sublime cen- turies in bowler-friendly con- ditions at Headingley as West Indies pulled off an audacious victory. In the experienced Shan- non Gabriel and Kemar Roach, they also have pace- men ready to exploit contin- The Souq Waqif Equestrian Festival in Doha on Monday. The horse show has brought together a large ued uncertainty in England’s England’s skipper Joe Root and teammates during nets at Kensington Oval, Bridgetown, Barbados on number of studs for the three-day event. top-order. Monday. (REUTERS) 20 Tuesday, January 22, 2019 The Last Word Family festival to add musical flavour to education soon

QMA, QPO and WISE come together to hold first-of-its-kind fest AILYN AGONIA DOHA

FOUR family concerts high- lighting the importance of mu- sic and education and bridging the two, will be staged for the Children’s and Family Fes- tival 2019 organised by the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra (QPO) in partnership with Qa- Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra Executive Director Kurt Meister, WISE Curator and Director of Programs Dr Ameena Hussain and QMA Managing Director Dr Abdul Ghafour al Heeti along with other officials at a press tar Music Academy (QMA) and conference at Katara on Monday. (JALAL PATHIYOOR) the World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE). The festival’s first concert and staging will be by thea- and the Wolf’ will be staged added, “Most of our conver- traditional learning environ- conductor Giovanni Pasini. The series of concerts for titled ‘Nour, A Girl of the De- tre duo from ACTory Tamara at the Katara Drama Thea- sations are around science ments or disciplines.” QMA Managing Director children and families, which sert’ will be staged at the Ka- Schafer and Svetlana Schmitz. tre at 5pm and 6:30pm. It and technology and so we The festival will wrap up Dr Abdul Ghafour al Heeti will be held for the first time tara Drama Theatre on Janu- “I was very glad to play will be narrated by Christoph thought that it is very impor- with a concert featuring Qatar reminisced about QMA’s jour- in Qatar, was announced at a ary 25 at 5pm. It will tell the a role in the project because Schmitz. tant to go back to the arts as Youth Orchestra with QPO. It ney since its establishment in press conference held at Kata- story and adventures of a girl it is a local production based “We are excited about this well and to include that as will be held at the Katara Op- 2011. Heeti mentioned the for- ra Drama Theatre on Monday. named Nour who lived in the on Qatari story and music. It collaboration. As WISE, we part of modern education. era House on February 2 at mation of Qatar Youth Orches- “We are celebrating the desert and later will move with is not a project from outside. want to reach out to the local We also partnered with lo- 7:30pm. tra in 2014 to develop the next 10th anniversary of the or- her family to the big city. We are very excited to work on community and explore col- cal artists to explore differ- “In other countries in the generation of musicians in the chestra, which was created in It will be followed by the this,” Alyamani commented laborations with a lot of the ent ways of storytelling and world, it’s often not possible country. Currently, QMA has 2008. Music has the power premiere of ‘Nour, Anna and about the concerts. organisations that are doing forms of learning. Then we for the children to play with about 500 students enrolled in to bring people together in the Wise Fools’ to be staged at On February 1, the festival great work in Qatar. We want- thought, nothing could be such high calibre orchestra its Academic Programme and many ways. And one of the the same venue on January 29 will feature the concert ‘Pe- ed to work with QPO on some- more artistic than combining like the QPO. In Qatar, it is the Music for All programme. most important role of the at 5pm. The concert will share ter and the Wolf’, which will thing that fosters education as visuals and illustrations with possible because both enti- QMA’s Head of Western orchestra is bringing music the adventures of Nour and showcase the seven visuals an important tool,” said WISE music as a learning tool. And ties are under Qatar Founda- Music Ozgur Mert Esen said closer to the children and her new-found friend Anna. created by 14 young students Curator and Director of Pro- that is precisely the objective tion. The children here have the professional musicians of bringing children to the mu- Both concerts will be conduct- between the ages 8 and 12 grams Dr Ameena Hussain. behind our workshops, to ex- an amazing opportunity to sit QPO serve as an inspiration to sic,” said QPO Executive Di- ed by QPO’s MAias Alyamani through the WISE Peter and Policy Development Of- ercise the creative muscles with an international touring their students and members of rector Kurt Meister. while the elaborate costumes the Wolf Workshop. ‘Peter ficer at WISE Farah Abel that are often neglected in orchestra,” said the concert the youth orchestra. Qatar-Russia cooperation to ‘The Majlis – Cultures in Dialogue’ expo moves to expand on WC projects: Envoy Institut Du Monde in Paris

‘Russia a reliable partner of Qatar in matters of bilateral and international relations’ TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK ASHRAF SIDDIQUI form their famous ballet ‘Anna Kareni- DOHA DOHA na’. There will also be a demonstration by popular Russian Sambo wrestling FOLLOWING its successful THE bilateral ties between Qatar and masters,” he informed. voyage to the Grandmaster’s Russia have strengthened in the recent The ambassador said that Qatar Palace in Valetta, Malta, and past and cooperation between the two Russia Year of Culture 2018 introduced to UNESCO Headquarters in countries on World Cup projects will Qataris to the diverse and unique cul- Paris, ‘The Majlis – Cultures intensify further in future, the Russian ture of Russia and the people of Rus- in Dialogue’ exhibition has Ambassador to Qatar HE Nurmakham- sia to Qatar’s unique and rich cultural moved to its next and third ad Kholov has said. heritage. stop – Institut Du Monde Ar- In an interview with Qatar Tribune, He noted further that both Rus- abe in Paris. the ambassador said: “As you know, sia and Qatar have played vital roles in The travelling cross-cultur- Russia held a great World Cup last bringing stability to the global oil mar- al exhibition, which features a year, which is considered by interna- ket. “Being vital sources of energy, the collection of artefacts from the tional experts as the best in the history two countries are working in tandem Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al of FIFA. During the closing ceremony to play a constructive role in develop- Thani Museum, opened to the in Moscow, Russian President Vladimir ing the global energy sector. Russia and public on January 8 and will The travelling cross-cultural exhibition features a collection of arte- Putin passed the ball and the baton of Qatar are members of the Gas Exporting remain on view until March 10. facts from the Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum. World Cup 2022 to the Amir HH Sheikh Countries Forum (GECF), and there are The exhibition showcases Tamim bin Hamad al Thani. positive tendencies in the investment carefully-selected objects that tolerant. With this exhibition, nation’s cultural heritage.” “We are pleased to have fruitful co- field between the Qatar Fund and the illustrate different levels of we want to focus on the simi- Dr Anna Paolini, direc- operation with our Qatari partners in the Russian Investment Fund,” he said. culture while expanding the larities that bind us as human tor of UNESCO Doha Office, fields of national football unions, securi- Russian Ambassador HE Nurmakhamad Kholov. The Direct Investment Fund of Rus- horizons of our understanding beings belonging to different said: “The previous showcases ty of sporting events, as well as training sia and the Qatar Investment Authority of other people and places. Its religions and cultures. These in Malta and UNESCO head- of athletes and development of sports He hoped the issue of Qatari and (QIA) have established a very dynamic main feature is an open space objectives are being perfectly quarter in Paris have proved medicine. I think in the future mutual Gulf families separated due to the block- relationship within the framework of a for intriguing panel discus- enhanced in the artefacts, that art and culture have their cooperation will intensify and will be ade is resolve soon and said that poli- joint investment platform, he said. sions. which we have selected to be own importance in bringing more targeted in all these areas, includ- tics should not interfere with religious According to Kholov, the trade vol- The latest edition of the ex- displayed at the Institut Du peace and prosperity globally. ing the participation of some of our or- affairs, while referring to the Hajj and ume between the two countries grew 25 hibition also features contem- Monde Arabe.” Our inherent objective of fruc- ganisations in the construction of stadi- Umrah rights of Qatari citizens and resi- percent to $75 million in 2017 compared porary art from in the Institut Andrew Faulkner, chair- tifying this through museums ums and delivering equipment to them. dents. to 2016. The trade volume between the Du Monde Arabe’s collection. man and managing director has only spelt good for The “We are convinced that Qatar will He lauded the resilience of Qatar’s two countries was $28 million in the While the ancient antiques of Qatar Shell, said: “Qatar Majlis – Cultures in Dialogue host the highest level of the champion- economy post-blockade, pointing out first five months of 2018 and is expected present the history of cultural Shell is proud to be associated entourage. Our association ship in 2022 and Russia will provide all that Doha was able to mobilise its eco- to increase significantly in coming years. integration, the new collection with The Majlis – Cultures with this unique initiative and necessary assistance to Qatari friends.” nomic resources pretty fast, including The two countries have also of contemporary art empha- in Dialogues journey, dem- Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al The Russian ambassador added that enhancing local production, establish- strengthened ties in agriculture, indus- sises the continuity and un- onstrating our aim to foster Thani Museums has been able Russia is a reliable partner of Qatar both ing new alliances and strengthening de- try, education, science, sports, and cul- interruptedness of the inter- dialogue and understanding to chart an unparalleled course in matters of bilateral and international fence capabilities, thanks to the vision- ture and tourism, he pointed out. cultural dialogue, throughout between Qatar and the world. in exploring the rich history of relations. ary leadership of the country. According to the ambassador, to the history. Our contributions to Qatar Qatar and bringing it to people Responding specifically to the is- In the area of cultural cooperation, date, more than $2.5 billion has been On the occasion, Sheikh stretch well beyond our direct across the globe.” sue of the ongoing Gulf crisis, he said: Kholov said that Qatar Russia Year of invested in the Russian economy by Faisal bin Qassim bin Faisal assets and projects. Therefore, ‘The Majlis – Cultures in “The Russian position on the current Culture 2018, which was the first-of-its- Qatar and investment returns are high al Thani said: “Since its incep- it is through our Corporate Dialogue’ will travel to several situation is clear. We want all the par- kind event in the region with Russian exceeding major stock indexes. Invest- tion, the intent of this travel- Social Responsibility efforts, European countries, showcas- ties to come to the negotiating table and participation, has just concluded while ments in such areas as infrastructure, ling cross-cultural exhibition in collaboration with our lo- ing a unique collection that resolve differences through a mutually more cultural events from Russia will be agriculture, medicine, real estate, and has been to spread the mes- cal partners, we take pride in reflects the interplay of civili- respectful dialogue within the frame- held in Doha this year. oil and gas are under consideration sage of peace, prosperity and supporting events that show- sations in order to foster inter- work of the GCC and without third party “In February this year, the world and expected to reach more than $9 understanding of one anoth- cases Qatar’s commitment to cultural dialogue and a spirit intervention.” famous Russian Eifman Ballet will per- billion, he added. er’s cultures, believing in co- promoting outreach, openness of understanding, harmony existence and becoming more and integration through the and peace among peoples. ‘Traces of Life’ by Qatari artist Nooh opens at Fire Station

Paris residency inspired me to aim high: Nooh

AILYN AGONIA kinds of art such as portraits, DOHA performing art and sculpture was a good opportunity for QATARI artist Ahmed Nooh him. “When I was in Paris, said his three-month residency I met many talented artists. at the renowned Cité interna- The experience inspired me tionale des Arts in Paris in- to dream of exhibiting my spired him to aim higher when works in a museum some- it comes to art. day,” he said. He was speaking to the For his Doha exhibition, media about his Paris experi- Nooh presented 20 of his ence during the opening of his works made of burned pa- first solo exhibition, ‘Traces of pers. The artist is known for Life’, at the Doha Fire Station creating art out of burning on Monday. books as a commentary on the The Paris Residency is vanishing practice of reading Ahmed Nooh with Fire Station Director Khalifa al Obaidly. an extension of Qatar Muse- physical books in today’s soci- (PHOTOGRAPHS BY JALAL PATHIYOOR) ums’ (QM) Fire Station: Artist ety. Burning books has histor- in Residence programme in ically been a way to condemn as a positive aspect of human feedback. His pieces struck a unique perspective and social of the Visual Arts Center in Ka- with a public talk, which gave Doha and takes one talented social, political and cultural development. chord with the public and we commentary which is sure to tara for four years. He is also attendees an opportunity to Qatari artist to Paris for a oppositions. Yet, through “We first exhibited were eager to see where he can spark interesting conversation a member of the Souq Waqif speak with the artist about his three-month stint. transfiguring the burnt mate- Ahmed’s work as part of the take his vision given the chance among visitors to the exhibi- Center for Fine Arts, as well as inspirations and artistic pro- Nooh said spending time rial, the artist recognises the Fire Station Artist in Resi- to work alongside other crea- tion,” said Khalifa al Obaidly, the Qatar Fine Arts Associa- cess. The exhibition will be and conversing with artists value of these books, in hopes dence exhibition last summer tives from around the world director of the Fire Station. tion in Katara. open to the public from Janu- who specialised in different of shedding light on reading and received some fantastic in Paris. The final product is a Ahmed has been a member He opened his exhibition ary 22 to February 12.