QatarTribune Qatar_Tribune Clay king QatarTribuneChannel qatar_tribune Nadal, Djokovic and Federer in same half of French Open draw FRIDAY, MAY 28, 2021 PAGE 12 Buoyant Barshim, focused Samba to set stage alight in Doha tonight TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK best shot, and I hope it turns DOHA out well,” said Fraser-Pryce.

AMIDST the stellar line-up of I’m now going to be athletes who have descended treating every meet as if in Doha for the Wanda Dia- it is the last: Morris mond league 2021, mega stars “The global pandemic was a pe- Mutaz Essa Barshim and Ab- riod of self-reflection for me and derrahman Samba will lead made me put things in proper the challenge for Qatari ath- perspective. Now, I am going to letes on what will be a dazzling be treating every meet as if it is evening of athletics at the Su- the last competition because you haim Bin Hamad Stadium at never know what will happen Qatar Sports Club on Friday. next,” Morris, the Rio Olympics The year’s event features silver medalist, said. more than 200 athletes, includ- According to her, she ing 12 reigning world champi- had to make many technical ons and several national and changes during the lockdown, world record holders. which she believed has set her The Doha leg is the second up for the challenges ahead, stop in the 14-cities meeting, especially with the upcoming following the season-opening Tokyo Games. “I am very ex- event held last Sunday in Gates- cited to kick off the season in head, North East of England. Doha. I’ve been jumping a lot The no-spectator compe- of 4.70m and 4.80m in prac- tition is being held under the tice, and I feel very confident safest conditions and in strict going into the competition.” adherence to the health and safety protocols stipulated by Happy to be back in the relevant health authorities Doha: Cheruiyot with all the participants, in- World champion Cheruiyot cluding more than 100 techni- has a 1500m best of 3:28.41 cal and medical personnel and from 2018, said he is happy escorts in a bio-bubble system. to be back in Doha - the city Among the unprecedented where he struck gold at the number of superstars on pa- World Championships in 2019. rade at this year’s event are “I’ve always loved com- reigning men’s high jump peting in Doha, and I look world champion Mutaz Bar- forward to another victory to- shim, Jamaica’s Shelly-Ann Qatar’s world stars Mutaz Essa Barshim (centre) and Abderrahman Samba (right) during the Wanda Diamond League 2021 press conference in Doha on Thursday. morrow,” he said. Fraser-Pryce, two-time Olym- Cheruiyot, who is one of pic champion and reigning 2011, said he looks forward is going on well, and it is so far the top contenders for Olym- women’s 100m world cham- to making the event memo- so good,” he added. pic gold in Tokyo, admitted pion; Beatrice Chepkoech rable with his performance. that the pandemic massively (Kenya), the reigning world “It’s been two years since I Running below 10.70secs disrupted his previous plans champion and world record last competed in the Diamond is my big dream in Tokyo: for Tokyo, but he has learnt to holder in women’s 3000m League in Doha, and I am ex- Fraser-Pryce adjust and gradually getting steeplechase. Also on the cards cited to be back. Doha is where According to Fraser-Pryce, a back into shape. are 1500m world champion it all started for me, and I’m al- two-time Olympic champion On his plans for Tokyo, the Timothy Cheruiyot of Kenya, ways happy to compete here in in 100m, running below 10.70 Kenyan said his focus is to be Russia’s Anzhelika Sidorova, front of my people. It is always secs is her major dream for the in top shape and make it to the the reigning pole vault world special competing at home as Friday’s Programme Tokyo Olympics. “I’ll be happy Games. “1,500m is increasing- champion who won the title in I’m more motivated.” ALL FINALS (SCHEDULED) 19:14: 800m Women to be on the podium, but to ly becoming very competitive a lifetime best of 4.95m. Barshim, who recently be- 17:58hrs: Pole Vault Women 19:28: 1500m Men American Sandi Morris: Rio 2016 be honest, I am more inter- with lots of great athletes in- Representing the home- came a proud father, revealed 18:23: 400m Men B Race 19:42: 200m Men and 2019 World Championship ested in running sub 10.70. volved. I have to remain in top front, alongside Barshim, are that his life-long dream is to ce- 18:25: Discus Throw Women 19:50: Shot Put silver medalist in pole vault. It is something I am working shape and keep my focus to 17 of Qatar’s best athletes, ment his legacy in the high jump 18:33: 800m Men B Race 19:53 3000m Steeplechase Women hard towards it. To have both achieve something significant including Samba, the World to the extent that when people 18:38: Triple Jump Women 20:14: 800m Men than 47 seconds, has had phe- will be quite interesting but here and in Tokyo,” he added. 18:43: 100m Men 20:26: 400m Men Championship’s 400m hurdles mentioned high jump in the fu- 18:53: 400m Hurdles Men B Race 20:38: 100m Women nomenal career growth since running below 10.70 is my top Also in attendance at the bronze medalist, and world- ture, the name Mutaz Barshim 19:03: 400m Hurdles Men 20:48: 3000m Women he first caught the world’s priority,” said the 34-year-old media meet were his compatri- leading 1500m star Musaab Ali will be on everyone’s lips. 19:05: High Jump Men 21:10: 3000m Steeplechase Men eyes after winning the 400 m Jamaican, who won her fourth ot Samba, USA’s Rai Benjamin, Adam, who recently qualified “I am someone who is not hurdles at the 2017 Diamond world 100m title in 2019 after the World Championship’s for the Tokyo Olympics. easily satisfied, and I keep League Doha, beating Olympic two years away from the sport 400m hurdles silver medalist, Adam will be competing pushing myself as I’ve lots and staying focused. Records in Tokyo: Samba champion Kerron Clement. to have her son Zyon. Fraser-Pryce, Cheruiyot, and alongside compatriots Hamza of personal goals I want to will come if and when they “Winning the bronze medal at “I’m pushing hard to im- She noted that mother- Sandi Morris, Rio 2016 and Driouch and Mohammed Al achieve. Before I retire, I want will come as you cannot set a the last world championships is prove on my performance in hood had been one of the 2019 World Championship sil- Garni. Also on the list is Olym- to say I’ve achieved all my time for records. Who knows, not enough, and Tokyo presents Tokyo. I am focused on giving greatest things to ever happen ver medalist in pole vault. pics-bound Abdulrahman goals. This is what drives me I might not only jump 2.45m another opportunity to improve my best performance, and I’m to her as it has changed many The 2021 Wanda Diamond Saeed Hassan and the sibling and keep me going,” he added. but probably 2.47m as well on my last outing on the global keeping an eye on the medal things about her and has fur- League comprises 14 meetings - duo of Femi and Seun Oguno- On breaking the existing because I believe impossibil- stage,” said Samba, who is one podium. It is always great to ther enhanced her personality. starting with Gateshead (replac- de (100m), among others. 2.45m world record, Barshim ity is Nothing.” of the major revelations in ath- compete here in Doha, and I “Though it has not been ing Rabat as the first host city on Addressing a press confer- said, “Nothing is impossible. letics in recent years. hope to have a wonderful out- easy with the pandemic, but I this year’s circuit) on Sunday, ence on Thursday, Barshim, The most important thing for I’m pushing myself to The 25-year-old, who is ing. I am in better shape than believe I am gradually getting May 23 – leading to a single fi- who made his debut at this an athlete is remaining moti- do better than my world the second person to run the in 2019, and I believe things back to top-form. I am ready nal across two days in Zurich at very competition in Doha in vated, being in good health, championships record 400m hurdle event in less are looking good. My training to give tomorrow’s event my the end of the season. My dream is to become the world’s greatest, says Benjamin TNN/AGENCIES 46 might not be enough again South African Wayde van diner won in 43.48. DOHA because the competition is get- Niekerk, who broke Michael Kerley, second-fastest in ting tougher by the day. I in- Johnson‘s world record in Rio, the world in 2017, took bronze AMERICAN 400m hurdler tend to keep improving myself I want to has been largely absent since behind Gardiner in Doha two Rai Benjamin will hold the and hopefully go into the record be remembered tearing an ACL and meniscus years ago. This year, he im- spotlight alongside Qatar’s books in Tokyo,” he said. as one of the playing celebrity tag rugby pressed over 100m, clocking Abderrahman Samba on Benjamin, alongside in late 2017. Last Sunday, 9.91 seconds to rank second Friday. Interestingly, both Samba, is the joint third- most versatile he eased up in a race due to in the world, but remains fo- athletes have a personal best fastest man in history in athletes the world tightness in the hip area of the cused on the 400m for the timing of 46.98secs. While the 400 m hurdles, noting has ever seen. same leg. Olympic Trials next month. Rai has clocked 47.13 as his that breaking Kevin Young’s Bahamian Steven Gardin- The U.S. went one-two in season’s best thus far, Samba 29-year-old world record of er, the 2019 World champion, the men’s 400m at the Olym- is yet to sizzle. 46.78 secs is going to take a fell to the track while straining pics in 2000, 2004 and 2008, Rai, visiting Doha for a lot of time. “I don’t feel pres- in the final meters of a 400m sweeping the medals in ’04 second time after his maiden sured, and I believe it could on May 18. He received treat- and ’08. Then a single bronze visit in 2019, said one of his happen, but I am not over- ment on his right ankle area. between 2012 and 2016, when dreams is to be ranked among thinking about it. It will hap- Norman was the Alpha the U.S. won zero Olympic the world’s greatest athletes pen with time,” he said. in the 400m at this time two men’s sprint titles overall. when he retires, and he sees In contrast, the men’s years ago after running 43.45 American men could win the Tokyo Olympics as another sprint scene, clearly defined seconds at an early season every Olympic track event opportunity in that direction. with favourites in each event American Rai Benjamin, alongside Qatar’s Abderrahman Samba, meet. That made him the from 100m through the “I want to be remembered two years ago, has since com- is the joint third-fastest man in history in the 400 m hurdles. joint-fourth-fastest man in 800m (and boast the defend- as one of the most versatile ath- plicated. It’s most crowded in history. But injuries followed. ing Olympic champion in the letes the world has ever seen. the 400m, where the U.S.’ two He was beaten by Kerley at the 1500m). Whether Norman or There is a lot of pressure on fastest men face off in a Dia- pated head-to-heads — also vs. Beatrice Chepkoech in the as favorites, in either order. 2019 USATF Outdoor Cham- Kerley is the one to watch in athletes at the moment, and as mond League meet. Sha’Carri Richardson vs. 3000m steeplechase. Even though neither owns an pionships and eased up in the the 400m is to be decided. The it is now, it might get to a point Michael Norman and Fred Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce in Norman and Kerley may individual gold or silver medal semifinals of the 2019 World faster man on Friday in Doha where running sub 47 or even Kerley lead a list of antici- the 100m and Emma Coburn well enter the Tokyo Olympics from a global championship. Championships, where Gar- stakes an early claim. Sports Friday, May 28, 2021 11

CAF SUPER CUP SHOWDOWN IN DOHA: Al Ahly vs RS Berkane at Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium at 7pm Al Ahly eager to end run of CAF Super Cup wins by less fancied

CAF competitions, winning 20 Renaissance rely heavily on titles, nine more than Zamalek Moroccans with two Burkina and Mazembe. Faso stars, defender Issoufou They travelled to Doha Dayo and forward Djibril Ouat- after qualifying for the 2021 tara, adding an international Champions League semi-finals flavour. Benali said his side did last weekend with a 3-1 aggre- not fear Ahly and said Berkane Al Ahly players during warm-up ahead of a training session at the Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium on Thursday. gate victory over Mamelodi will have chances too in the Sundowns of South Africa. game. “This is a final between AGENCIES host the Super Cup match from ly last year. midfielder Mohamed ‘Afsha’ had many tough games in the Berkane were shock casu- two big teams. We know Al DOHA 2019. The match will take place Changing the venue from the Magdy and forward Mohamed league and in the CAF Cham- alties in the 2021 Confedera- Ahly very well and they are one at Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium ground of Champions League Sherif, failed to lift the trophy. pions League, in addition to tion Cup group phase, failing of the biggest teams in Africa. STAR goalkeeper Mohamed with kick-off at 7pm. In line winners to Doha led to succes- Ahly South African coach many travels. We will make to qualify for the quarter-finals But this is a football game that el Shenawy will captain Egyp- with Qatar’s Ministry of Public sive victories for the winners of Pitso Mosimane called it a sure to be well prepared. May- after coming third behind JS will be played on the pitch and tian giants Al Ahly on Friday Health (MOPH) measures, the the second-tier Confederation ‘50-50 game’ with both teams be we are physically tired, but Kabylie of Algeria and Coton we are waiting for it,” he said. when they attempt to reverse stadium’s capacity will be limit- Cup, the African equivalent of having ‘equal chance’ of vic- we are mentally ready. Every Sport of Cameroon in Group B. “In football there are no the recent trend of underdogs ed to 30% to prevent the spread the UEFA Europa League. tory. “We know RS Berkane match comes with its pressure. The side that beat Coton in surprises. We will play a game winning the annual CAF Super of COVID-19. Champions Esperance is a very strong team and they Al Ahly is always expected to a dead-rubber final group game of 90 minutes and possibly Cup match. Only fully vaccinated peo- of Tunisia lost to Zamalek have a good new coach and tal- win, and we want to do that and contained only five survivors penalties and let’s see who African Champions League ple and those who have recov- of Egypt in 2019 and to Raja ented players. They are always make our supporters at home from the 2020 Confederation wins afterwards. If we thought title-holders Ahly are favoured ered from Covid-19 in the last Casablanca of Morocco in doing well on the internation- happy,” Mosimane added Cup final in which they edged that our win was a surprise we to lift the trophy at the ex- nine months will be permit- 2020 – a dramatic change af- al scene and we respect them The Cairo Red Devils have Pyramids of Egypt 1-0 in Rabat. would not have come here. pense of Confederation Cup ted to attend the match. The ter winners of the marquee very much. This is a final so it’s won the Super Cup a record There has also been change We respect Al Ahly much, but winners Renaissance Berkane clubs had to arrive in Doha 72 competition had triumphed in a 50-50 game and both sides six times with Zamalek (four of coaches with Moroccan there is no place for fear. This of Morocco in Doha. hours before the match and 21 of the previous 23 games. have an equal chance to win titles) and TP Mazembe of the Tarik Sektioui being replaced is a football game, and we have Qatar, who next year will were placed in bio-bubbles -- But it would be a shock if an the cup,” he said yesterday. Democratic Republic of Congo by Spaniard Juan Pedro Be- our chances too. We need to be become the first Middle East the first time CAF have taken Ahly team stacked with stars, “For us, we want to win, and (three) the next most success- nali, who joined Berkane after ready for any scenario and will country to stage the World Cup, this step since the coronavirus including El Shenawy, Moroc- we must work well to achieve ful sides. Ahly are much fur- guiding three other clubs in be prepared for everything,” signed a three-year contract to pandemic spread to Africa ear- can centre-back Badr Banoun, that. During the past weeks we ther ahead when it comes to all the north African kingdom. the Spaniard added. Villarreal end long title wait in Europa League marathon shoot-out thriller DPA you – sometimes it’s decided GDANSK (POLAND) on one kick. “We’ve got to learn from VILLARREAL goalkeeper that, not savour this feeling Geronimo Rulli made the dif- but taste this feeling and make ference in an astonishing 11- sure we don’t get it again.” Zinedine Zidane. (AFP) 10 penalty shoot-out victory The La Liga side - who in the Europa League final also now enter the Champions against Manchester United on League group phase next term Adios and au revoir: Wednesday as the Yellow Sub- - opened the scoring when marine claimed their first-ever Gerard Moreno touched in major honour. Dani Parejo’s 30th minute free Zidane quits as Real An attritional game ended kick but United levelled when 1-1 in the rain of Gdansk with Edinson Cavani converted a neither side deserving to win ricochet 10 minutes after the Madrid boss for in regulation and after 20 con- restart to take an attritional verted spot-kicks from outfield game almost as far as possible. a second time players it was left to the keep- United had made the bet- ers to settle matters. ter start without creating any- DPA his return in March 2019, he Rulli smashed an unstop- thing of note and fell behind BERLIN led Madrid to La Liga title in pable kick high to the left of when Moreno evaded Vic- 2020. In 113 games, he had 67 David de Gea and then saved tor Lindelof to score. Defender ZINEDINE Zidane has de- wins, 25 draws and 20 defeats. the weak shot of his opposite Harry Maguire was an unused cided to leave his position This season, however, Zi- number to make history for Vil- substitute having lost his bat- as coach of Real Madrid, the dane and Madrid finished larreal and coach Unai Emery, tle for fitness and will rue the Spanish club said Thursday in without a trophy, which meant who has now lifted the Europa gap left in his absence. confirming weeks of specula- Real didn’t win a title for the League a record four times. Villarreal’s players celebrate with the trophy after winning the UEFA Europa League nal at the Gdansk A much improved United tion surrounding his future. first time in 11 years. “It feels really good. It’s Stadium in Gdansk, Poland, on Wednesday. (AFP) equalized soon after the re- “We must now respect his They were second in La been a tough competition, we start though were fortunate as decision and express our grati- Liga, two points behind cham- knew it was going to be very Marcus Rashford’s shot took tude for his professionalism, pions and city rivals Altetico tough against a very good side not one but two deflections to dedication and passion over Madrid. like Manchester United,” said land for Cavani, who couldn’t the years and what he means In the Champions League, Villarreal midfielder Francis miss with Rulli helpless. to Real Madrid,” the club said Zidane and his side were Coquelin. A Cavani header, blocked in a statement. knocked out by Chelsea in the “When you go down to by reported United target Pau The French coach had a semi-finals after they already the end, the winner takes it Torres, was as close as either contract until June 2022, but had been eliminated of the all; Manchester United put us side came to a winner in normal had reportedly already told Spanish Cup by third divi- under a lot of pressure and we time though Rashford missed Real Madrid players earlier in sion side Alcoyano in the third had to dig in to get the result. an open goal when offside. May he would leave at the end round. “The penalty shoot-out Torres swept wide with al- of the 2020-21 season. The Spanish giants are yet is always a lottery, and we’re most the last kick of the regu- “Zidane is one of Real Ma- to announce a new coach. Mas- really pleased to have won it. lation 90 minutes and neither drid’s great icons and his lega- similiano Allegri was pointed We’ll try to celebrate because side risked losing to poten- cy extends beyond what he has out as a top favourite, but he it’s something massive for the tially gain victory in the ad- achieved as a coach and player will reportedly return to Ju- club and for all of us.” United’s ditional period. This was the at our club,” Real said. ventus, where he won five con- own trophy drought will enter first Europa League final to go “He is aware that he has a secutive Italian league titles. a fifth year following another to extra-time since Emery’s place in the hearts of the Real Antonio Conte is report- near miss for manager Ole Sevilla went on to beat Benfica Madrid fans and that he will edly also a target after he left Gunnar Solskjaer and also on penalties in 2014 and histo- always have a home at Real Italian champions Inter Milan means Manchester cannot join ry repeated itself - though only Madrid.” In his first spell at on Wednesday, while former Milan as the only city to win after an epic shoot-out. the club from January 2016 club striker Raul Gonzalez has two major European tourna- That will not bother the Vil- to May 2018, Zidane secured been linked with the post. ments in a season; Manchester larreal fans who travelled to Po- three consecutive Champi- Raul is currently the coach City play Chelsea in Saturday’s land to be part of the reduced ons League titles and won the of Real Castilla, Madrid’s team Champions League final. Villarreal’s Argentine goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli (3rd-L) is congratulated by teammates after stopping capacity crowd amid the coro- Spanish league once. B, a post also held by Zidane “It’s a disappointed dress- a penalty in a shoot-out during the UEFA Europa League nal against Manchester United at the Gdansk navirus as their club ended a His second term was not as before he was first promoted ing room,” Solskjaer told Stadium in Gdansk, Poland, on Wednesday. Villarreal won 11-10 on penalties after the match had ended 98-year wait for a trophy in the successful as the first, but after to the top job. BT Sport. “That’s football for 1-1 in rain in regulation time. (AFP) most dramatic fashion possible. 12 Friday, May 28, 2021 Sports

JORDAN RALLY 2021 Al Attiyah, Al Theferi aim

This combination of le photographs shows (L) Spaniard Rafael to defend series leads Nadal, (C) Swiss Roger Federer and Serbian Novak Djokovic. The three most successful men in Grand Slam tennis history, were on Thursday all drawn in the same half of the 2021 French Open. (AFP) Oman’s Hamed Djokovic, Nadal Al Wahaibi sidelined after and Federer drawn shakedown crash TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK in same half of DEAD SEA (JORDAN) THE 2021 Jordan Rally got French Open underway on the shores of the Dead Sea on Thursday after- DPA Zverev are the other big names noon. Twelve cars and com- LONDON in the bottom half while Brit- petitors from eight nations ish number one Dan Evans will now tackle 10 demanding NOVAK Djokovic, Rafael Na- - another player looking for a gravel stages on Friday and dal and Roger Federer are all first victory at Roland Garros Saturday in the Dead Sea, in the same half of the draw for - meets Serbian Miomir Kec- Mount Nebo and Jordan River the French Open beginning on manovic. areas close to the lowest geo- Sunday. In the women’s draw, de- graphical point on earth. With Nadal having dropped fending champion Iga Swiatek Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah behind Daniil Medvedev to third opens against Slovenia’s Kaja will be hoping his extend his in the rankings, it raised the pos- Juvan and is in the same half eight-point lead in the FIA sibility of a lopsided draw, and as top seed Ashleigh Barty, who Middle East Rally Champion- so it has proved. returns to Roland Garros for ship in the absence of closest There can be no repeat of the first time since winning the rivals, Abdulaziz Al Kuwari last year’s final, when Nadal title in 2019 and faces Ameri- and Khalid Al Suwaidi, who defeated Djokovic to win a 20th can Bernarda Pera first up. pushed him hard at the open- grand slam title, with the pair Seventh seed Serena Wil- ing round in Qatar at the end seeded to meet in the last four. liams is in the opposite half of January. Federer is a potential and meets Irina-Camelia Begu On this occasion the 13- Nasser Saleh al Attiyah, 13-time winner, waves the ag at the start of 2021 Jordan Rally in Dead Sea on Thursday. quarter-final opponent for while second seed Naomi Osa- time winner of the Jordan Ral- Djokovic, although, given the ka takes on another Romanian ly faces competition from for- 39-year-old’s lack of matches in Patricia Maria Tig, with mer QMMF president Nasser and stated target of hitting both women short of match Khalifa Al Atya and Oman form on the grass, it would be wins on clay. Rally Team driver Abdullah Al something of a surprise if he With Harriet Dart losing in Rawahi. made it that far. the final round of qualifying, Hamed Al Wahaibi had Top seed Djokovic will Britain have just four repre- been relishing his return to open his campaign against sentatives across the singles the international arena af- American Tennys Sandgren and neither Johanna Konta ter a nine-year absence, but while Nadal faces young Aus- nor Heather Watson have the Omani suffered a shock tralian Alexei Popyrin and shown encouraging form. crash while testing tyres on Federer meets a qualifier. Konta, seeded 19 and de- Thursday morning and was Britain’s Cameron Norrie, fending ranking points from not able to make the ceremo- who also opens against a quali- 2019’s semi-final, meets nial start after damaging his fier, has reached two ATP Tour Sorana Cirstea of Romania, Škoda Fabia. finals on clay in the last month who beat her at the US Open Al Wahaibi said: “I lost a Former QMMF president Nasser Khalifa Al Atya and Oman Rally Team and is a potential third-round last year, while Watson has bit of concentration while test- Abdullah Al Rawahi at the start of the Jordan Rally. driver Abdullah Al Rawahi with ofcials at the start. opponent for Nadal, although won just one of her last seven ing tyres. I just ran a bit wide he will first have to get past in- matches and takes on Kazakh out of a corner and went into a Guarantee Travel Group and form Italian Lorenzo Sonego. Zarina Diyas. small ditch. The car went end- 2021 Jordan Rally – List of starters & Standings Nestle Waters Jordan. Medvedev, who reached An interesting first-round over-end about five times. Ilka 1. Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah (QAT)/Matthieu Baumel (FRA) Lancer Evo IX (QAT) 40pts; 2. Abdulaziz Al Kuwari (QAT) 32pts; 3. his second slam final at the match-up sees 2020 runner- (Minor) and I are both okay. Volkswagen Pole GTI 9. Alex El Feghali (LBN)/Georges Deaibess (LBN) Khalid Al Suwaidi (QAT) 27pts; 4. Nasser Khalifa Al Atya On Friday 2. Abdullah Al Ruwahi (OMN)/Ata Al Hmoud (JOR) Ford Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X (QAT) 23pts; 5. Meshari Al Thefiri (KWT) 19pts; 6. Saleh Australian Open but has nev- up Sofia Kenin play former The car proved its strength. I Fiesta 10. Asem Aref (JOR)/Ahmed Jankhot (JOR) Renault Clio Al Saif (SAU) 15pts; 7. Rashid Al Mohannadi (QAT) Crews tackle two loops of er won a main draw match at champion Jelena Ostapenko was so happy to be here and 3. Meshari Al Thefiri (KWT)/Nasser Al Kuwari (QAT) 11. Ahmad Khaled (LBN)/Musa Djiyerian (JOR) 13pts; 8. Zakariya Al Ofi (OMN) 11pts; 9. Ahmad Khaled three special stages, starting Roland Garros, faces a tricky while Carla Suarez Navarro back in rallying. Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X (LBN) 9pts; 10. Zakariya Al Amri (OMN) 7pts. with a run through the 9.8km opener against in-form Ka- makes her return follow- “We will be in Rally Leba- 4. Henry Kahy (LEB)/Carlos Hanna (LBN) Škoda Fabia 1.6 12. Shadi El Fakih (LBN)/Samer Sfeir (LBN) Mitsubishi MERC 2 Championship – standings after round 1: of Syagha from 09.19hrs. 5. Nasser Khalifa Al Atya (QAT)/Giovanni Bernacchini Lancer Evo IX 1. Meshari Al Thefiri (KWT) 40pts; 2. Rashid Al zakh Alexander Bublik. ing successful cancer treat- non, for sure. Thanks to the (ITA) Ford Fiesta 14. Saleh Al Saif (SAU)/Feisal Al Suwayh (SAU) Can-Am Mohannadi (QAT) 31pts; 3. Zakariya Al Ofi (OMN) 28pts; The brand new challenge of Dominic Thiem, Stefa- ment against former US Open organisers for all their sup- 7. Shadi Sheban (JOR)/Emad Juma (JOR) Mitsubishi Maverick X3 4. Ahmad Khaled (LBN) 23pts; 5. Zakariya Al Amri Adasiyah (34.70km) follows at nos Tsitsipas and Alexander champion Sloane Stephens. port. The welcome has been Lancer Evo IX 2021 FIA Middle East Rally Championship – (OMN) 18pts; 6. Shadi El Fakih (LBN) 1pt. 09.58hrs and the loop is com- great, fans, competitors and 8. Ihab Al Shourafa (JOR)/Yousef Juma (JOR) Mitsubishi Standings after Round 1: 1. Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah MERC 3 Championship: 1. Henry Kahy (LEB) 40pts. pleted with a blast through the my friend Nasser (Al Attiyah) 11.34km of the Baptism Site was so supportive. Now I wish takes a nine-point advantage dom but local drivers Shabi local driver Asem Aref in the special from 11.17hrs. my team-mate Abdullah Al- in the secondary ‘showroom’ Shaban and Ihab Al Shourafa MERC3 section for two-wheel After a return to the Dead Naomi Osaka has Rawahi all the best for the category into the opening stag- and the Lebanese trio of Alex drive cars and Saudi Arabia’s Sea Service Park for a mid- imposed a media coming two days.” es on Friday. El Feghali, Ahmed Khaled and Saleh Al Saif rounds off the leg regroup and chance to ban during French Meshari Al Thefiri has won His two closest rivals, Shadi El Fakih will be hoping starting line-up in a T4 Can- refettle the cars, the loop of Open citing mental the last three MERC2 cham- Rashid Al Mohannadi and Za- to push him all the way. Am Maverick X3. three speed tests are repeat- health reasons. pionships in his Mitsubishi kariya Al Ofi, have not made Lebanon’s defending Support for the event ed at 12.58hrs, 13.37hrs and Lancer Evo X and the Kuwaiti the trip to the Hashemite King- champion Henry Kahy faces comes from Zain Jordan, 14.56hrs, respectively.

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE Osaka refuses to hold news conferences at Roland Garros Man City seek to crown Guardiola era with title DPA in one. DPA pions League final, reached BERLIN “We’re often sat there and BERLIN the FA Cup final, got top four. asked questions that we’ve So it’s a good season, but not NAOMI Osaka has imposed a been asked multiple times be- PEP Guardiola can proudly perfect because we need to media ban during her upcom- fore or asked questions that say he has had a successful win a trophy.” Chelsea have ing French Open campaign, bring doubt into our minds stint with Manchester City beaten City twice this season citing mental health reasons. and I am not going to subject so far. The manager secured and knocked them out of the Osaka – the reigning Aus- myself to people who doubt three Premier League titles FA Cup in the semi-finals. But tralian Open champion and me. with the team and helped to Tuchel knows the Champions four-time grand slam winner “I’ve watched many clips establish the club as one of the League final is another topic. – announced the shock media of athletes breaking down af- top sides in Europe. “It’s always so, so tough boycott ahead of the Roland ter a loss in the press room But there’s something to play against [Guardiola’s] Garros event, which will get and I know you have as well. I missing: the Champions teams. We’re trying to close underway on Sunday. believe that whole situation is League title, which for the the gap and the good thing is, Under French Open rules, kicking a person while they’re first time ever City will have in football, you can close gaps typical of any tennis tourna- down and I don’t understand a chance to secure when they in 90 minutes. ment, players are required to the reasoning behind it. face fellow Premier League “That is absolutely pos- hold media conferences after “Me not doing press is side Chelsea on Saturday at the sible, and that’s what we are each match. nothing personal to the tour- Estadio do Dragao in Porto. aiming to do in the final,” the Osaka is the world’s high- nament . However, if the or- “Sometimes clubs need manager said. est earning female athlete and ganisations think that they more finals to win the first As like last year, the Cham- will be fined by tournament of- can just keep saying, ‘do press one, others need one shot. pions League final was once ficials should the world number or you’re gonna be fined’, and Hopefully that will be the again affected by the coronavi- two follow through and not take continue to ignore the mental case,” Guardiola said. rus and moved from Istanbul part in news conferences. health of the athletes that are “I am so confident in my Manchester City’s players arrive at the team’s hotel in Porto on Thursday. Manchester City will take on to Porto due to travel restric- Japanese star Osaka hopes centrepiece of their co-oper- team. You cannot imagine how Chelsea in the UEFA Champions League nal at the Dragao stadium in Porto on Saturday. (AFP) tions related to the pandemic. the fines she will receive can ation then I just gotta laugh.” confident I am in my team and Turkey was added to Brit- be donated towards mental Osaka heads to Paris hav- what we have to do,” he added. told the club website. Chelsea manager Thomas was crucial to lead the team to ain’s “red list” for travel because health charity. ing never progressed beyond For Guardiola, it’s the “He knows the way to win. If Tuchel is the first to reach the big finale in Porto. of the high coronavirus infec- “I’m writing this to say that the third round of the French chance to clinch his first we all pull together, we are one back-to-back finals with two “He came in and from the tions numbers. That means I’m not going to do any press Open. Champions League title since step closer to achieve the final different clubs in Champions first minute the players felt a those returning to the country during Roland Garros,” Osaka The 23-year-old skipped his second triumph with Bar- goal.” On the other side of the League and European Cup his- great connection with him,” must face a 10-day hotel quar- wrote on Twitter. “I’ve often last year’s French Open amid celona in 2011. pitch, Chelsea reached the final tory after losing last season’s Chelsea midfielder Mateo Ko- antine period on their return. felt that people have no regard the coronavirus pandemic, “Pep is our map. He has won for the first time since 2012, final with Paris Saint-Germain. vacic said. This year, however, fans for athletes’ mental health and though she claimed her sec- the competition several times, when they beat last season’s Tuchel took over at Stam- “He did a good job and we will be in the stands with this rings true whenever I see ond US Open crown at Flush- both as a player and as a man- winners Bayern Munich at their ford Bridge in January and has had a great season in the end, 16,500 spectators allowed into a press conference or partake ing Meadows. ager,” midfielder Bernardo Silva own Allianz Arena stadium. made an instant impact, which because we came to the Cham- the stadium. Nation Friday, May 28, 2021 13 Urdu Radio to relaunch its programs on June 1, targets younger listeners L N MALLICK ger responsibility to shape active social media engage- need to change with the times to our loyal listeners. globally wherein the radio DOHA our programs in line with the ment. in order to keep up with the new “The changes include a went from just being on air to rapidly changing world of in- “We started off with an scenarios that are thrown at us,” tagline ‘Dil Se Desi’ to set the being a social media entity as URDU Radio FM 107, for- fotainment. We are not only RJ hunt to tap new talent that Khan remarked. identity straight that we are well. There is a general belief merly known as Radio Qatar changing with time but also went viral among all nationali- “We, as Qatar’s first radio indeed Qatar’s Desi Radio that radio available for the gen- Urdu Service, will relaunch its working on future perspectives ties in Qatar. We are also build- re-presentors, strongly believe station which is rooted, yet eral public is all about playing programs on June 1 with the with a bird’s eye view to cap- ing a strategy to cater to all the in the same concept of run- modern; engagement with the songs, contests and RJs hitting aim to attract more young lis- ture every market and weave South Asian nationalities on ning an organisation. For the Desi community and becom- the airwaves with their wit, teners. it with entertaining shows and all levels. Since we will be serv- past 41 years we have built a ing a part of their everyday life; but we have decided not just The radio channel began ideas. Our re-introduction is ing to strengthen businesses, legacy and FM 107 Qatar has providing a platform to local to break the norms but also to with a one-hour broadcast all set to go all guns blazing we would like to provide our become the backbone of the talent and supporting them; bring in something out of the with only two RJs in 1980 and from June 1 with our new jin- services to all those who need Qatar radio fraternity, and a providing wholesome enter- box while strengthening our has since grown to offer a 24- gle hitting Qatar’s radio air- marketing assistance and be foundation of what has fol- tainment and reliable infor- basics. hour service with extremely waves,” said Acting Director always available to upscale the lowed. Being a part of a gov- mation; keeping the cultural “Henceforth, we are also popular programming. It is Shadab Ahmad Khan, while creative ratio and help busi- Shadab Ahmad Khan, acting ernment body has only pushed ethos of Qatar and of different bringing about a change in particularly popular among speaking to Qatar Tribune. nesses to grow,” said Khan. director, Urdu Radio FM 107 us forward stronger. We have nationalities in mind and pro- our system to stay updated South Asian expatriates who He said the FM 107 fam- “Change is constant in life, been the most trusted radio moting cross border friend- and serve our listeners with understand and speak Urdu. ily would be expanded with and those who do not adapt trends. As we all know, youth station covering all the major ships; new playlists to mark a the new FM 107 which will “We are quite privileged the addition of new RJs. New become stagnant,” he ob- is the driving force behind events and skits over the past statement and to segregate our be more youthful and joyful to be part of Qatar Media Cor- campaigns will be launched to served. all success. Qatar, as a young four decades with an approach drive times,” said Khan. and will be available on air, on poration’s Radio Wing. This attract radio listeners and con- “With this in mind, we country, deserves a younger to deliver every information ”Over the past few years, ground and online with equal privilege comes with a big- vert them into viewers through must adapt to changing sound. This explains why we all with a pinch of entertainment we have witnessed a change supremacy,” asserted Khan. QM announces its DFC announces reopening reopening schedule of its entertainment hub

TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK Today’s openings include galleries, restaurants and playgrounds DOHA

TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK DOHA Festival City (DFC), DOHA ‘Qatar’s one and only choice for shopping, dining and enter- QATAR Museums yesterday tainment’, has announced the announced the re-opening of a reopening of its theme parks number of its museums and res- Virtuocity and Snow Dunes taurants to the wider community from May 28, following the from today, in accordance with government’s announcement the Ministry of Public Health. on the phased reopening of The reopening aligns with the amusement parks and other Ministry’s resumption of public recreational activities in Qatar. activity in Qatar, based on mile- The opening of Virtuocity stones reached in controlling the and Snow Dunes will be fol- COVID-19 pandemic. lowed by the reopening of An- The National Museum of gry Birds World, which will be Qatar (NMoQ), Mathaf: Arab announced soon. Museum of Modern Art, and be open as well. Public pro- a normal temperature read- After months of closure, Doha Fire Station are among grammes, exhibitions, and ing. Visitors over the age of 12 theme parks Virtuocity and the museums and galleries that group tours will be suspended will be required to bring and Snow Dunes will welcome will reopen. Saturday through during the first phase of re- wear a mask. Hand sanitiser back vaccinated visitors for a Thursday: 9 a.m. – 7 p.m., and opening. stations will be strategically fun and safe experience, ad- trance, show a Golden Eht- Friday: 1.30 p.m. – 7 p.m. Play- In accordance with the Min- placed throughout the venue hering to 20 percent indoors eraz status, wear a mask dur- grounds, libraries, and parks at istry of Public Health’s guide- to encourage visitors to keep capacity as per the government ing their presence in the park Qatar Museums will also reo- lines, only a limited number of their hands clean. On-site sig- guidelines. Doha Festival City and undergo a temperature pen. The Museum of Islamic Art visitors and staff will be per- nage will also remind visitors to theme parks are owned and check,” he added. will remain closed. mitted inside each museum. keep a safe distance from other managed by 100 percent Qa- Along with these guide- During museum hours, Visitors will be required to visitors. In addition, interactive tari operator Leisure, driven lines, all visitors can also ex- the gift shops will provide lim- pre-purchase tickets on the Qa- features such as touchscreens by operational excellence and pect the following; ited service. From Saturday tar Museums website. Ticket- will be temporarily removed committed to deliver excellent Hand sanitizing stations to Thursday, NMoQ’s JIWAN holders must present a “green” from each museum, and gallery entertainment services. throughout the park. Restaurant will be open for health status on the Ehteraz guides will only be available on- Robert Hall, general man- Enhanced cleaning, lunch and afternoon tea with a virus-tracing app upon arrival line. ager of Doha Festival City, done between sessions and limited capacity. at the museum. At the entrance, Please visit www.qm.org.qa said: “We are excited about every night to sanitize the The NMoQ gift shops will each person will be checked for for more information. the reopening of Qatar’s num- park and all park amenities ber one Entertainment Hub. (includes restrooms, seating Time spent within Doha Fes- areas, lockers and tubes). tival City is about celebrating Signs and ground staff special moments with family. will be present across the We are delighted to share the parks reminding everyone to Ooredoo offers iPad Pro 5G joy with Qatar’s community in maintain social distancing and one of our favourite destina- use appropriate PPE when re- tions, and to be able to offer quired. New model features our customers another memo- All ground staff members advanced display rable experience that goes be- are also required to undergo yond shopping.” screening prior to shifts, and technologies for Furthermore, Leisure has must follow several protocols announced its new operating when managing guest services unmatched viewing procedures in preparation for and rides, cleaning various ar- the phased approach of the eas of the park and overseeing TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK reopening of the amusement operational areas. DOHA parks. The updated proce- markable and safe experience. ing and continuous sanitiza- Doha Festival City open- dures will adhere to the gov- Sherif Elbassiouny, leisure tion of all rides and attractions ing hours are Saturday to OOREDOO is now offering the ernment recommendations managing director, said: “Our are the basis of our procedures Wednesday from 10am to 10 powerful new 11-inch and 12.9- while providing all guests an main objective is to provide along with reduced capacity of pm, and Thursday to Friday inch iPad Pro with 5G, featur- Thunderbolt and USB 4, and Pro now offering groundbreak- exciting experience. The staff our guests with an exclusive 20 percent indoors and a man- from 10am to 11pm. Virtuoc- ing the breakthrough Apple- much more. ing extreme dynamic range for at the entertainment parks entertaining experience in a datory Golden Ehteraz for our ity and Snow Dunes opening designed M1 chip for a massive Both models feature ad- even greater brightness and are also highly trained for the safe environment. Accord- guests” hours are Thursday to Friday leap in performance, an all-new vanced display technologies for stunning details. For complete reopening, following the new ingly, we will implement all “Those coming to the park from 3pm to 12am, and Satur- 12MP Ultra Wide front camera an unmatched viewing experi- pricing and availability details, measures and procedures needed measures without any will be required to undergo a day to Wednesday from 1pm for Center Stage, support for ence, with the 12.9-inch iPad visit www.Ooredoo.qa/eshop. to provide visitors with a re- compromises. Social distanc- health screening at the en- to 10pm. Generation Amazing advocates support COVID-19 relief efforts in India

Sadique and Saleem apply skills learned from Qatar 2022 legacy programme

TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK DOHA

ADVOCATES from Genera- tion Amazing, a FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 legacy pro- gramme, are supporting COVID-19 relief efforts in India. Sadique Rahman and Generation Amazing advocates Sadique Rahman and Saleem Puthiyottil have been working with a team of aid workers to organise food deliveries and transport for sick patients. Saleem Puthiyottil have been working with a team of the community in Kerala. people throughout the pro- forts during the 2019 Kerala During his time with work and communication teered as an advocate for the aid workers to organise food “We are connecting cess.” flood. Generation Amazing, Rah- skills through Generation Generation Amazing Work- deliveries and transport for with local people, engag- Rahman and Puthiyottil Puthiyottil said: “It has man has won an award for Amazing methodology and ers’ Programme at Barwa sick patients. ing with them and provid- have been working along- been a pleasure to be back in leading football for develop- inspired them to become Sports Complex. He has Rahman, who has been ing direction for moving side the Gooseberry Club in touch with Sadique after our ment training sessions and important members of their helped to promote and ex- involved with Generation forward,” said Rahman, Kerala to deliver vital com- time at Generation Amazing helping workers become communities. pand the programme, which Amazing since 2015, said he who is currently in Kerala. munity support. The club and work together again at coaches in Qatar. He has en- On top of establishing has grown from 20 partici- applied skills learned during “It’s like all good teamwork had previously worked with such a crucial time for our couraged participants to de- a youth club in Al Khor, in pants initially to more than the programme to support – we are uniting the right Rahman to support relief ef- people.” velop their leadership, team- 2016, Rahman has volun- 300. 14 Friday, May 28, 2021 The Last Word

‘Pandemic prompted scientists to make more innovations’

Continued from page 1  has brought about in terms scientific and health achieve- nell Medicine-Qatar developed volunteered at Hamad Medi- of those who have tested posi- participant in this global initia- of great changes in life, busi- ments, whether in research, in-house, accurate testing for cal Corporation laboratories to tive for COVID-19, to help limit tive. SHEIKHA Moza said, “But we ness, and health. And yet, the medicine or nursing, and has COVID-19, and another sensi- provide technical assistance in the spread of the virus in Qatar. “But, despite all this rapid cannot thrive, and the world value of knowledge remains stimulated the research sector tive test to detect antibodies analyzing COVID-19 samples.” At Sidra Medicine, a new scientific progress today, there cannot prosper with one spe- the same, whether in science, to make further innovations through blood and urine sam- Qatar Biomedical Research COVID-19 rapid test was de- are still countless human ge- cialisation without the oth- literature or art. No one field and discoveries. ple, in addition to the efforts of Institute also developed a Se- veloped in 2020, maintain- netic codes that remain a mys- ers, and we cannot build a takes precedence over another “As we celebrate your its professors and students in rology Kit to detect COVID-19 ing 98 percent accuracy. This tery to us, still waiting to be strong foundation without all in its importance, and the val- graduation today, it is only studying and examining pro- antibodies in record time. method will reduce the cost deciphered. I am certain that, your specialisations together. ue it brings to our lives.” appropriate to exemplify the tective antibodies to be used And at Qatar Computing of testing by approximately 75 among your generation, there While you may notice a fo- Returning to the topic that contributions that Qatar Foun- against the virus.” Research Institute, experts percent. will be those who will go on to cus on medicine, it does not has occupied the world for dation’s universities, research- Sheikha Moza added, developed a contact tracing And, Qatar Genome Pro- contribute to deciphering these indicate a preference for this more than a year, she said, ers, and students have made in “Moreover, Qatar Founda- technology that tracks people’s gramme participated in the codes, and to play their part in field. It simply reflects what the COVID-19 pandemic has fighting the pandemic.” tion researchers and students movement based on cell phone COVID-19 Host Genetic Ini- bringing scientific renaissance the coronavirus pandemic highlighted the importance of She said, “The Weill Cor- with molecular biology skills data, and identifies the location tiative, making it the only Arab to this region,” she said. QF graduates all set to face Double joy for family as ElSharkawi challenges of the real world sisters graduate at QF convocation AILYN AGONIA AILYN AGONIA Northwestern University’s DOHA DOHA home campus in Evanston, Illinois, in the United States, DESPITE the challenges and IT was double joy for the was a significant achieve- difficulties of graduating in the ElSharkawi family as sis- ment for her. Additionally, midst of a pandemic, members ters Nadeen and Salma were she said that the events that of Qatar Foundation’s (QF) among the graduates hon- occurred in Education City Classes of 2020 and 2021 are oured at Qatar Foundation’s over the years, as well as the eager to put their hard-earned (QF) virtual convocation cer- people she met along the knowledge to use and make a emony for its Classes of 2020 way, made her four years of difference in their society. and 2021 on Thursday. learning more enjoyable and Sidra Sohail, a member of Despite the disappoint- memorable. the Class of 2021 at Virginia ment of missing out on “Graduating during a Commonwealth University a traditional graduation pandemic was definitely School of the Arts in Qatar Maryam Al Attiyah Bandar Nasser al Abdulla ceremony, Nadeen Nasr a sad thought to me and (VCUarts Qatar), is confident ElSharkawi, Class of 2020, for sure for other students that the prestigious institu- to think in new ways and be- of the 2020 and 2021 classes. I Virginia Commonwealth from Classes 2020 and 2021 tion has provided her with the come more flexible in how we believe we have demonstrated University School of the Arts since I would have loved to necessary skills and knowledge approach it. Before pandemic, that we are exceptional as indi- in Qatar (VCUarts Qatar), go out with a “big bang” af - throughout her educational it was hard to imagine I could viduals.” said graduating alongside ter working hard for my de- journey. work with fashion designers Bandar Nasser Al Abdulla, her sister has made the long- gree. I am thankful I gradu- She focused her gradua- from across the globe without a chemical engineering gradu- awaited event even more ated and can move on to tion project, Blurred Lines, on traveling but now that appears ate of Texas A&M University special for their family. the next chapter of my life. her relationship with her home to have changed for many of in Qatar (TAMUQ), is set to “Here I am, one year lat- I look forward to entering country Pakistan as an expat us.” join Qatar Petroleum. Com- er, graduating on the same the workforce and make the living in Qatar. She compared Another VCUarts Qatar menting on the fact that he day as Sallooma! I appreciate most of my education in my her collection to a song writ- graduate this year, Maryam completed his learning jour- the effort that QF is putting field,” Salma said. ten for her country, capturing Al Attiyah, described graduat- ney in such extraordinary into this. We’re all thrilled to Soha Moussa, the belov- the nostalgia of everyday life in ing under these extraordinary circumstances, he said, “I am be able to share this major ed mother of sisters Nadeen Pakistan through designs and and difficult circumstances as proud to be a member of my event together. I really wish and Salma, is, of course, at garments that link back to her a proud moment for herself graduating class because we things had gone differently, the heart of their celebration. childhood. and her peers. She said, “It’s a have demonstrated over the but I’m glad my sister and She described her daughters’ She said, “Through this shame that the Classes of 2020 years that we are one of the I are graduating together!” accomplishment as a proud collection, I wanted people and 2021 will never have the op- most powerful and academi- Nadeen told Qatar Tribune. moment for the family. to look back at their own cul- portunity to attend a university cally gifted groups admitted She also said that she has “During the pandemic, tures as well. I also wanted to graduation or a QF convocation. to the university. I say this many wonderful memories I was worried about my start conversations about peo- I never imagined that adjusting with great pride because we from her time at the Univer- daughters’ health and well ple’s native cultures, poems, to virtual learning would be both still managed to excel despite sity. Some of these are an- Nadeen and Salma with their proud mother Soha Moussa being. The toll the pandemic languages, songs, proverbs, a blessing and a challenge that issues caused by the pandemic ecdotes that still make her could take on my daughters’ fashion, architecture, social would propel us as individuals, and the difficult transition to smile to this day. Salma Nasr ElSharkawi, to these unfortunate events mental health was worri- language, and everything else. students, educators, parents, virtual learning, which was es- “Our library team throws a member of Northwestern we’ve been put in, it’s been some but thankfully Nadeen It’s also a statement of love and institutions forward in the pecially difficult for engineer- great parties every once in University in Qatar’s (NU-Q) difficult celebrating. But on and Salma made me proud. and preservation of the world’s face of a global crisis.” ing. I am excited to continue a while, and they’re always Class of 2021, is also equal- the bright side Nido and I Their accomplishments dur- cultures. My goal was to start She also said, “I’d like to my studies, obtain a PhD, and so much fun. One time, my ly happy to be able to share will be celebrating together ing their university years these discussions about the thank everyone on the faculty serve my country as one of its friend and I got so carried such a momentous occasion with our mother!” never fail to make the family preservation of eastern arts and staff for inspiring us to be top engineers. As of now, I’ll be away, we forgot we have a with her sister, and she em- When asked about her proud. I am thankful for the and culture.” more creative, resourceful, and working as an engineer for Qa- class at 2pm. So, we quickly phasised the joy it brings to favourite university memo- opportunity QF, VCUarts, Looking on a brighter side innovative. This push shaped tar Petroleum.” ran to class with fun head- their mother. ries, Salma said that being and NU-Q have given to my of the current situation, Sidra not only our personalities, but Meeting his friends, ac- bands and henna on our She said, “My mother accepted into NU-Q’s Com- daughters. My family and I added. “Fashion is very hands- also our desire to be innova- cording to Bandar, is an impor- hands. We looked so dumb is excited to have both her munication Exchange Pro- are excited in seeing them on industry. The pandemic tive and critical thinkers. I tant highlight of his university but at least it was fun!” Na- daughters officially gradu- gram, which allowed her graduate alongside each oth- is particularly challenging us can’t express how proud I am years. deen fondly shared. ate at the same time. Due to study for a semester at er,” said Soha. GU-Q graduate takes learning from classroom to the pitch Aspiring local football player graduates at Qatar Foundation’s virtual convocation ceremony

TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK ent views. understanding of my situation. Speaking about how COV- DOHA “Within my football club, I remember one semester, we ID-19 impacted his studies, we have people with different had to travel outside the coun- Al-Mulla explains that there ASPIRING footballer Ra- nationalities, who speak differ- try for training camps, and I had were some benefits to online beea Al-Mulla is a 21-year-old ent languages, and have differ- to drop a few classes so I could studying. “It gave me more free Georgetown University in Qatar ent perspectives. The discus- manage my course load. But time and I was able to better (GU-Q) graduate who, over the sions I experienced within the my professors were very help- manage my life outside of uni- last few years, has worked to classroom at GU-Q were very ful; they encouraged me to keep versity. However, I must say, it take learnings from the class- helpful, and I was able to take playing, and to keep studying.” was harder to retain informa- room to the football pitch. these learnings out on to the Explaining how the support tion and stay focused on course “University was a real eye- pitch – such as how to commu- from the university motivated material.” opener,” he says. “There were a nicate with my teammates bet- him and pushed him, Al-Mulla And as Convocation edged lot of international students at ter and how to improve my time adds in the future he’d like to closer, and he begins the next my high school, Qatar Academy management skills. Rabeea Al-Mulla continue to balance playing chapter of his life, Al-Mulla told Doha, but the environment at “And I know that these skills sports while carving out a career the next generation of QF learn- university was very different. will help me in my future, after had to find a balance between in the financial sector in Qatar. ers: “Stick to it – even if at times “The way the classes are university.” his studies and his training. Al-Mulla was among 1,600 it feels that you’re not in the structured at Georgetown Uni- Majoring in International He says he wasn’t like the young students celebrated at place you want to be, or it feels versity in Qatar allows for a lot Economics at GU-Q, a Qatar other students, as he wasn’t al- QF’s Convocation ceremony on like you’re are not making pro- of in-depth discussions, where Foundation (QF) partner uni- ways around – on campus – be- Thursday, which, due to public gress. The key is to stay consist- you learn about different ideas versity, while playing football cause of football. health measures, took place ent and focused until you reach and you learn to accept differ- for Qatar Sports Club, Al-Mulla “The professors were really virtually. where you want to be.”