From left: Sonny Williams, Abou Diaby and Manish Bhasin during the event.
As the World Cup finals is approaching fast, two highly successful sportsmen lauded Qatar’s hosting of the biggest football tournament, saying Qatar demonstrated hospitality despite the negative propaganda directed at it.
Sonny Bill Williams and Abou Diaby were the two main speakers at “The Making of a Champion” held yesterday at the National Museum of Qatar.
Former French professional footballer Diaby said the atmosphere of the World Cup is different, “it brings culture, happiness [altogether]. What I noticed is Qataris' hospitality, and really saw it in this World Cup.” Former professional league and rugby union player turned heavyweight boxer, Williams said that the biggest sporting event is “massive.” He also pointed out Qatar’s hospitality which is of “high-standards.”
Both elite athletes watched the last semi-final game against France and Morocco on Wednesday. Williams said that being in the country is “special” and he is “excited to be here.” “Moroccan brothers inspired me to travel halfway the globe. Just seeing for myself… I’ve never been to a soccer game, it’s unbelievable.”
Diaby who played for Arsenal and represented France during the 2010 FIFA World Cup said that the Wednesday’s match was a “pretty good game.” Being a player himself, he said his “feet were moving during the game.”
They also highlighted how sports unite people. According to Williams, it unites communities and people from all walks of life. Diaby stressed that individuals are not supposed to be alone. “Human beings are meant to meet each other, to know each other — and sports are a good means for that.”
The jam-packed event was attended by government officials, football fans and even two-time World Boxing Champion, Amir Khan. It was moderated by sports journalist and presenter, Manish Bhasin. Having successful careers, Williams and Diaby said they are thankful where they are now. They also shared what is needed to be a champion.
Williams said: “it’s hard because not everyone can be an elite sportsman, for me, the message that I give to my kids is having some patience to do it again and again, and having perseverance.”
“Perseverance, hard work and dedication, we come from nothing, but through hard work, dedication and having a dream. If you have that dream – that’s what gonna keep you up in the morning, and that’s what gonna push you to do things that other people aren’t going to.”
Diaby stressed that one should do his “best.” “To focus, to be on top all the time, to be out of your comfort zone – that will give you mental strength when you play. You search for perfection. As you see, there’s only one Mbappe, one Messi. You must have this attitude to reach that certain goal.” He added, “Always try to prove yourself.”
On how to overcome challenges, Diaby said: “Always believe in yourself because life is not easy, nothing easy will bring in your journey, and what’s important is always focus on your task, despite all the challenges.”
