Podcast // Football, UAE // 1 hr 1 mins

Game On: The Rise of Women’s Football with UAE Star Areej Al Hammadi 

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At the time of publishing July 17th, 2023, the FIFA Women’s World Cup was just days away, women’s football was – and still is – exploding globally, gaining unprecedented recognition from fans, brands, and media alike. 

That edition of the Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand saw almost two million fans attend the event – up by more than 600,000 on the previous record.

At such a monumental moment, we were thrilled to host Areej Al Hammadi, a star player for the UAE National Team and Adidas athlete. 

Areej, a 37-year-old Emirati footballer, shared her inspiring journey. From kicking a ball with her brothers as a child to becoming a national team player, she carved her own path in a time when professional avenues for women were scarce. Now, as a 2x time Guinness World Record holder, she’s a powerful role model for aspiring female footballers.

In this insightful episode, Areej breaks down the evolving landscape of women’s football in the UAE and globally, discussing both the challenges and the incredible opportunities. We dive deep into the buzz around the Women’s World Cup and what the future holds for the sport.

As FIFA’s President Gianni Infantino declared, ‘… the future is women’.  At The Mettleset, we know the NOW is too. 

🎧 Tune In and Join the Football Revolution!

📸 Follow Areej’s journey: @areej.alhammadi13 and www.areejalhammadi.com

🔗 Stay updated on the FIFA Women’s World Cup

Nourelhoda Arafa

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