Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – February 17, 2025 – In a historic moment for Saudi Arabian swimming, Zaid Al-Saraaj, a standout swimmer from Mahd Sports Academy, has etched his name in the country’s sporting history by setting a new national record in the 50-meter freestyle at the highly competitive Dubai Open Swimming Championship, which concluded today. The 17-year-old talent clocked an extraordinary 23.02 seconds in the final, surpassing the previous record of 23.35 seconds, which had been set by Youssef Bouarish. This remarkable achievement not only secured him the gold medal in the event but also marked a defining moment for Saudi swimming on the international stage.
Al-Saraaj’s exceptional performance was not limited to the final race. In the preliminary heats, he had already stunned the competition by recording a blistering 22.23 seconds, a time that further showcased his impressive speed and technique, setting the stage for an unforgettable final. His groundbreaking finish in the final was a testament to his skill and relentless drive, as well as his ability to rise to the occasion under the intense pressure of elite competition. With this new national record, Al-Saraaj firmly established himself as a future star in the world of competitive swimming.
The young swimmer’s achievement is part of a broader, ongoing transformation in Saudi Arabian swimming, which has been making substantial strides in recent years. This success reflects the country’s growing focus on developing sporting excellence, and Al-Saraaj’s performance underscores the importance of nurturing young talent to compete at the highest international levels.
A significant factor in Al-Saraaj’s success is the comprehensive support he has received from Mahd Sports Academy, which has emerged as a key institution in the development of Saudi Arabia’s future athletes. The Academy’s commitment to excellence is evident in its world-class coaching staff, state-of-the-art training facilities, and individualized approach to athlete development. Through these resources, Mahd Sports Academy has been instrumental in shaping young athletes like Al-Saraaj into world-class competitors capable of excelling on the global stage.
The achievement of Zaid Al-Saraaj in Dubai sends a powerful message to aspiring athletes across Saudi Arabia, reinforcing the idea that dedication, discipline, and access to high-quality training can lead to extraordinary accomplishments. Al-Saraaj’s triumph not only elevates the profile of Saudi swimming but also serves as an inspiring example of what can be achieved when young talent is supported and nurtured. As he continues to break records and set new benchmarks in his career, the future of Saudi swimming appears incredibly bright, with Al-Saraaj leading the charge towards greater international success.
With his sights now set on further championships and international competitions, Zaid Al-Saraaj’s record-breaking performance at the Dubai Open Swimming Championship is just the beginning of what promises to be a stellar career in swimming. His unwavering commitment to his sport, combined with the resources and guidance provided by Mahd Sports Academy, ensures that he will continue to push the boundaries of what is possible for Saudi swimming on the global stage. As the nation celebrates this remarkable achievement, the focus now shifts to what the future holds for one of the brightest young talents in the sport today.