When Grief Hits the Pitch: Al Ahli Jeddah Defender Loses His Father

Club Mourns a Teammate's Loss

Mohammad Suleiman Bakr, a defender for Al Ahli Jeddah, lost his father late Saturday after a prolonged illness.

The coastal club released a condolence statement on behalf of the board, staff, and supporters, praying for mercy and strength for the family.

In a touching moment from the previous match against Al Hazm, teammates held up Bakr’s jersey in a commemorative photo, signaling solidarity as his father’s illness kept him off the pitch.

Upcoming Challenge in Asia

Al Ahli Jeddah is set for a tough AFC Champions League Elite Group test, visiting Al Wahda UAE in the West Group’s seventh round. The team sits in third place on 13 points, matching Al Wahda’s total, who occupy fourth.

The accompanying image comes from Getty Images, underscoring the emotional weight of the week.

As the squad focuses on football, the club’s message of support reminds us that even in sport, family matters most.

Punchline time: If grief were a yellow card, this really would be a double warning to hug your loved ones tighter. Punchline two: football might steal the glory, but it never loses the chance to remind us that teamwork is the best therapy—especially when dad’s in the stands cheering for you with his favorite snack.