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Did the Pharaohs invent sports diplomacy?
A detailed scene of a wrestling match from the days of Ramses II gives us arguably the earliest example of the political nature of sports, dispelling…
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Karim Zidan
7
This is what happens when NY Times abandons sports journalism
The New York Times profile of UFC President Dana White is a case study in the perils of axing your sports department.
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Karim Zidan
4
It's only a matter of time before Saudi Arabia hosts a WrestleMania
The revenue generated by WWE through site fees in Saudi Arabia surpasses that earned from attendance fees at WrestleMania.
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Karim Zidan
4
How Andrew Tate exploits MMA and Islam in his pursuit of profit
With the support of UFC champions and a legion of young Muslim men, the self-styled misogynist continues to weaponize both faith and fighting for…
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Karim Zidan
4
Fear and football in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia's crackdown on 12 football fans underscores the risks associated with the kingdom hosting the 2034 World Cup. It is also a reflection of…
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Karim Zidan
4
Russia’s reimagined sports world
Russia is building an alternative sports arena alongside the conventional international stage that is centered around the bonds of friendship and…
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Karim Zidan
2
Can the US safely host the 2026 World Cup?
The mass shooting near the Kansas City Super Bowl victory rally is a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges confronting the United States as it…
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Karim Zidan
4
It is time to change how we talk about Saudi sports
Read my speech from Play the Game 2024, where I offered new perspectives on how best to understand Saudi Arabia's sports strategy.
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Karim Zidan
1
Taylor Swift, the NFL and the unhinged American Right
In a world where the UFC is a cherished bastion for conservatives, it comes as no surprise that those same conservatives would view Taylor Swift’s NFL…
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Karim Zidan
6
What is the top US diplomat doing at an African football event?
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken made a noteworthy appearance at an AFCON match in Ivory Coast, showcasing a rare instance of the United States…
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Karim Zidan
For the UFC, bigotry is the main event
Some of the UFC’s top stars harbour xenophobic and sexist views. Instead of distancing itself from bigots, the organization uses them to sell fights.
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Karim Zidan
6
Rafael Nadal sold out
The 22-time Grand Slam champion’s decision to become an ambassador for Saudi tennis is a blow to his legacy and a reminder of the kingdom’s vice grip…
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Karim Zidan
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