Famous Sudanese Sportspersons

Luol Deng is a retired professional basketball player who had a successful career in the NBA. He was a two-time NBA All-Star and was named to the NBA All-Defensive Second Team in 2012. Deng played for various teams during his NBA career, including the Chicago Bulls, Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat, Los Angeles Lakers, and Minnesota Timberwolves. After retiring from playing, he transitioned to coaching and is currently serving as an assistant coach for the South Sudan men's national team, as well as being the president of the South Sudan Basketball Federation.

Peter Jok is a professional basketball player from South Sudan, currently playing for the Ottawa BlackJacks in the Canadian Elite Basketball League. He previously played college basketball for the University of Iowa in the Big Ten Conference. Known for his versatility as a 6-foot-6-inch swingman, Jok has also represented the South Sudan national team in the 2023 FIBA World Cup and has secured a spot in the 2024 Olympics. With a successful career in both college and professional basketball, Jok continues to make a mark in the basketball world.

Abdalelah Haroun Hassan was a prominent Qatari track and field sprinter known for his specialization in the 400 meters event. He achieved significant success in his career, becoming the Asian champion in 2015 and setting the Asian indoor record. His dedication and talent in sprinting earned him recognition on both regional and international levels. Abdalelah's impressive performances showcased his skill and determination as a professional athlete, leaving a lasting impact on the world of track and field.

Yamilé Aldama Pozo is a renowned triple jumper who has represented three different countries throughout her career. She competed for Cuba until 2003, Sudan from 2004 to 2010, and then Great Britain from 2011 onwards. With four Olympic appearances between 2000 and 2012, she has showcased her talent on the world stage. Aldama's impressive track record includes a silver medal at the 1999 World Championships and a gold medal at the 2012 World Indoor Championships, solidifying her status as a top athlete in the field.

Musab Kheder is a Qatari professional footballer known for his skills on the field. He currently plays for Al-Sadd, a prominent football club. Kheder has also represented the Qatar national team, showcasing his talent at an international level. With a strong presence on the field, he is recognized for his speed, agility, and technical abilities. Kheder's contributions to both his club and country have solidified his reputation as a valuable player in the world of football.

Ismail Ahmed Ismail is a Sudanese sprinter known for representing Sudan in the 800 meters event. He achieved a significant milestone by winning Sudan's first Olympic medal, a silver in the Men's 800 meters at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing. Ismail has showcased his talent and dedication through his impressive performances on the track, solidifying his reputation as a top athlete in the world of sprinting. His achievements continue to inspire younger generations of athletes in Sudan and beyond.

Abubaker Kaki Khamis is a renowned Sudanese runner known for his specialization in the 800 metres distance. He has achieved significant success in his career, being a two-time World Indoor Champion and winning gold at the 2007 All-Africa Games. Kaki Khamis has proudly represented Sudan at the 2008 and 2012 Summer Olympics, showcasing his talent on the global stage. He is a member of the Messiria ethnic minority, adding to the diversity and richness of his professional journey.

Faisal Zakaria is a renowned Sudanese kickboxer based in Auckland, New Zealand. He has achieved great success in his career, holding the prestigious title of WBC International Muay Thai Heavyweight Champion. Zakaria is known for his exceptional skills and determination in the ring, earning him a strong reputation in the world of kickboxing. With a proven track record of victories and a dedicated training regimen, he continues to inspire fans and fellow athletes with his impressive performances and unwavering passion for the sport.

Ahmed Ali is a Sudanese sprinter who has competed at various prestigious events including the World Championships and the Olympics. He faced disqualification at the 2015 World Championships in Beijing but showed resilience by competing at the 2016 Olympics. Ali has a strong background in athletics, having attended Alief Hastings High School in Houston, Texas, South Plains College, and the University of Alabama. His dedication and experience in sprinting have shaped his professional career, making him a notable figure in the world of track and field.

Mohamed Younis Idris is a Sudanese high jump athlete with an impressive track record in regional and international competitions. He has achieved personal bests of 2.28 meters both outdoors and indoors, setting national records in the process. Throughout his career, he has won multiple medals at events such as the African Championships, African Games, and Arab Championships. Despite facing challenges like injuries, he has continued to compete at a high level, showcasing his talent and determination on the global stage.

Abdalla Abdelgadir El-Sheikh, known as Abdalla Abdel Gadir, is a prominent Sudanese middle distance runner focusing on the 1500 meters. He has established himself as a skilled athlete with a strong specialization in this event. Throughout his professional career, Abdalla has demonstrated exceptional talent, dedication, and perseverance, consistently competing at a high level in various competitions. His achievements in the field of middle-distance running have earned him recognition and respect within the athletics community, showcasing his commitment to excellence and passion for the sport.

Nagmeldin Ali Abubakr is a Sudanese Olympian who competed in the 400 meters event at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing. He did not advance to the semifinals in the competition. Apart from his athletic pursuits, Abubakr is known for his role as a sergeant in the Sudanese army. He hails from Khartoum and later moved to Nyala, Darfur. He belongs to the Zaghawa (Beri) ethnic group. Abubakr's dedication to both sports and military service showcases his commitment and discipline.

Abdalla Targan, also known as Abdalla Yousif, is a Sudanese middle distance runner who has competed at the highest levels of international athletics. He represented Sudan at the 2016 Summer Olympics in the men's 3000 metres steeplechase, showcasing his talent and dedication on a global stage. Despite not qualifying for the final, Targan's participation in the Olympics highlighted his commitment to the sport and his country. He also had the honor of being the flag bearer for Sudan during the Parade of Nations at the event.

Abdel Rahman Massad Saleh is a Sudanese long-distance runner known for his participation in the men's 5000 metres event at the 1988 Summer Olympics. Throughout his professional career, he demonstrated dedication and skill in the sport of running, showcasing his endurance and speed on the track. Competing at the Olympic level is a testament to his talent and commitment to excellence in long-distance running. Abdel Rahman Massad Saleh's achievements in athletics have left a mark on the international sports community.

Amina Barcham Bakhit is a Sudanese middle-distance runner known for her achievements in various competitions. She won gold at the 2007 Pan Arab Games in the 800 meters and secured bronze in the 10,000 meters at the 2011 Pan Arab Games. However, her career faced a setback when she tested positive for norandrosterone in 2009, leading to a two-year ban from sports. Despite this, Bakhit returned to competition after the ban ended in 2011, showcasing her resilience and determination in the world of athletics.

Sayed Abdel Gadir is a renowned Sudanese boxer who represented his country in the 1960 and 1968 Summer Olympics. Throughout his professional career, he displayed exceptional skill and determination in the ring, earning him recognition as a formidable competitor. Gadir's participation in the Olympics showcased his dedication to the sport and his ability to compete at the highest level of international competition. His achievements in boxing serve as a testament to his talent and commitment to excellence in the sport.

Abdullah Ramadan Suliman is a Sudanese boxer who competed in the men's light middleweight event at the 1988 Summer Olympics. Throughout his professional career, he demonstrated exceptional skill and determination in the sport of boxing. His participation in the Olympics showcased his commitment to the sport and his ability to compete at the highest level of international competition. Abdullah Ramadan's boxing career highlighted his dedication to training, his strategic approach to matches, and his passion for representing Sudan on the global stage.

Haneen Ibrahim is a talented Sudanese swimmer known for her participation in prestigious international competitions. She has competed in events such as the women's 50 metre freestyle at the 2016 Summer Olympics, where she set a national record. Ibrahim also represented Sudan at the 2019 World Aquatics Championships and the 2020 Summer Olympics. Despite not advancing to the semi-finals in these events, she continues to showcase her dedication and skill as a competitive swimmer on the global stage.

Sadam Suliman Koumi el-Nour is a talented Sudanese sprinter known for his impressive performances in the 400 metres and 4 × 400 metres relay events. Despite facing challenges such as injuries and disqualifications, Koumi has showcased his skills on various international platforms. He has achieved notable successes, including winning gold medals at the 2011 African Junior Championships and representing Sudan at prestigious events like the World Youth Championships and the African Championships. Koumi's dedication and perseverance have earned him a spot in the competitive field of track and field athletics, culminating in his participation in the 2020 Summer Olympics.

Todd Matthews-Jouda is a Sudanese hurdler who participated in the 2004 Summer Olympics, finishing in 27th place. Born a United States citizen, he later switched to Sudanese citizenship to compete. In the 2005 World Championships, he placed last. Growing up in America, he later moved to Sudan and changed nationalities. Matthews-Jouda is known for his career as an Olympic athlete, drawing comparisons to the likes of Venus Williams for his dedication and achievements in the world of competitive sports.

Abdelrahim Mohamed Abdelrahim, known as Abdel Mohamed Abdelrahim, is a Sudanese swimmer who has competed in various international swimming events. He participated in the 100m freestyle, 50m backstroke, and 50m butterfly events at the 2012 FINA World Swimming Championships (25m). Abdelrahim also represented Sudan in the 50m freestyle event at the 2013 Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games, as well as the 50m freestyle and 50m butterfly events at the 2013 World Aquatics Championships. His professional career demonstrates his dedication and skill in the sport of swimming on a global stage.

Abdelaziz Mohamed Ahmed is a Sudanese swimmer who competed at the 2016 Summer Olympics in the Men's 50 metre freestyle event. Although he ranked at #81 with a time of 27.71 seconds, he did not advance to the semifinals. His participation in the Olympic Games showcased his dedication and talent in swimming at an international level. Abdelaziz continues to represent Sudan in various swimming competitions, demonstrating his passion for the sport and commitment to achieving success on a global stage.

Iszlam Monier Suliman is a Hungarian Sudanese judoka who has competed at the highest level of his sport. He represented his country at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, participating in the men's 90 kg category. Despite facing tough competition, he showcased his skills and determination on the Olympic stage. His professional career highlights his dedication to judo and his willingness to challenge himself against top athletes from around the world.

Moreldin Mohamed Hamdi is a Sudanese athlete known for his prowess in hurdles. He represented Sudan in the men's 110 metres hurdles event at the 1972 Summer Olympics, showcasing his skills on the global stage. His participation in the prestigious Olympic Games highlights his dedication to the sport and his ability to compete at the highest level. As a hurdler, Moreldin Mohamed Hamdi's professional career is marked by his achievements in international competitions, where he has demonstrated his speed, agility, and determination.

John Michel Mirona is a former Olympic boxer from Sudan who represented his country at the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul, South Korea. Competing in the Men's Featherweight category, he reached the second round where he was defeated by Ya'acov Shmuel of Israel. Despite receiving a bye in the first round, Mirona was knocked out by Shmuel early in the first round of their bout. His Olympic journey showcased his talent and dedication to the sport of boxing.

Muna Durka is a Sudanese steeplechase runner who represented Sudan at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing. She competed in the first-ever women's 3000 meters steeplechase event, finishing in ninth place in the second heat. Despite her performance, she did not advance to the final round, placing thirty-eighth overall. Durka's Olympic journey showcased her talent and dedication in the sport of steeplechase running, highlighting her participation on an international stage among top athletes.

Ahmed Adam is a Sudanese swimmer who competed at the 2008 Summer Olympics in the Men's 50 metre freestyle event. Despite his participation in the Olympics, he did not advance to the next stage of the competition. As a professional swimmer, Ahmed Adam has demonstrated his dedication and skill in the sport, representing Sudan on an international platform. His participation in the prestigious Olympic Games showcases his commitment to excellence and his passion for swimming at a competitive level.

Awad El Karim Makki is a Sudanese sprinter known for his impressive performance in the 400 meters event. He achieved a significant milestone by winning the bronze medal at the 2009 World Youth Championships in Athletics. Makki's dedication and talent in sprinting have brought him recognition on the international stage. He continues to train and compete at a high level, aiming to further excel in his athletic career and inspire others with his achievements in track and field.

Basha Bakri is a retired Sudanese sports shooter known for his participation in the 1960 Summer Olympics in the 300 metre rifle, three positions event. Throughout his career, Bakri displayed skill and dedication in the sport of shooting, showcasing his marksmanship abilities on the international stage. His involvement in the Olympics exemplifies his commitment to the sport and his pursuit of excellence as a competitive shooter. Bakri's legacy continues to inspire aspiring athletes and shooting enthusiasts around the world.

Mohamed Abakkar is a Sudanese boxer who competed in the 1972 Summer Olympics. Known for his impressive skills and determination, Abakkar made a name for himself in the boxing world during his professional career. He represented Sudan with pride on the international stage and showcased his talent against top athletes from around the globe. Abakkar's dedication to the sport and his memorable performances in the Olympics solidified his status as a respected and talented boxer in the sporting community.

Abdel Wahab Abdullah Salih is a Sudanese boxer who competed in the 1968 and 1972 Summer Olympics. Throughout his professional career, he displayed exceptional skill and determination in the sport of boxing. Competing on the Olympic stage allowed him to showcase his talent and represent his country on an international platform. Salih's dedication to his craft and his commitment to excellence earned him a place among the elite athletes of his time, leaving a lasting impact on the boxing world.

Shag Musa Medani is a Sudanese long-distance runner who achieved international recognition for his participation in the marathon event at the 1972 Summer Olympics. His professional life is marked by dedication to athletic excellence and a commitment to representing his country on the global stage. Medani's training regimen, perseverance, and competitive spirit have earned him a place among elite athletes in the field of long-distance running. His participation in the Olympics highlights his talent and passion for the sport, inspiring others with his performance and sportsmanship.

Gibreel Ali is a former Sudanese sports shooter known for his participation in the 1960 Summer Olympics. His expertise lies in the 50-metre rifle, three positions, and 50-metre rifle, prone events. Throughout his professional career, Gibreel Ali demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication in the field of sports shooting, competing at the highest level of international competition. His achievements at the Olympics showcase his commitment to the sport and his ability to perform under pressure on a global stage.

Hamdan El-Tayeb is a Sudanese sprinter known for his participation in the men's 100 meters event at the 1960 Summer Olympics. He showcased his athletic prowess on an international stage, representing Sudan with pride and determination. His dedication to sprinting and commitment to training led him to qualify for the prestigious Olympic Games, where he competed against top athletes from around the world. El-Tayeb's professional career highlights his passion for track and field, inspiring others with his athleticism and sportsmanship.

Omer Khalifa is a Sudanese retired middle distance runner known for his exceptional achievements in track and field. He set a national record in the 1500 meters in 1986 and won silver medals in the 800m and 1500m races at the Olympic Boycott Games in 1980. Khalifa further showcased his talent by winning the 1500m race at the World Cup in 1985. He also participated in the 1984 and 1988 Summer Olympics, as well as the 1987 World Championships, consistently demonstrating his prowess on the international stage.

Nawal El Jack is a Sudanese sprinter known for her expertise in the 400 meters event. She has proudly represented Sudan in international competitions, including the 2008 Summer Olympics. With a focus on sprinting, Nawal has dedicated her professional life to honing her skills and achieving success on the track. Her participation in prestigious events showcases her commitment to the sport and her determination to compete at the highest level. Nawal El Jack's career highlights her talent and passion for sprinting.

Mohamed Abdul Hamid is a Sudanese former swimmer known for his expertise in sprint freestyle events. He represented Sudan at the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney, competing in the men's 50m freestyle. Despite receiving a ticket through FINA's Universality program, he was disqualified for a false-start rule violation during the preliminaries. Hamid's professional career highlights his participation in international competitions and his dedication to swimming, particularly in sprint freestyle disciplines.

Ahmed Mohamed Osama is a Sudanese table tennis player known for his participation in the men's singles event at the 1996 Summer Olympics. Throughout his professional career, he has demonstrated exceptional skills and dedication to the sport of table tennis. Competing at such a prestigious event like the Olympics showcases his talent and commitment to the game. Ahmed's achievements in the field of table tennis have earned him recognition as a skilled athlete and a notable representative of Sudan in international sports competitions.

Mohamed Babiker Yagoub is a Sudanese middle-distance runner known for his participation in the men's 800 meters event at the 1996 Summer Olympics. He has showcased his athletic prowess on the international stage, representing his country with pride. Yagoub's dedication and commitment to his sport have earned him recognition and respect within the running community. His achievements and contributions have left a lasting impact on the world of middle-distance running, inspiring future generations of athletes to strive for excellence.

Morgan Gesmalla is a Sudanese sprinter known for his participation in the men's 100 metres event at the 1968 Summer Olympics. As an athlete, he showcased his speed and skill on the track, representing his country at the prestigious Olympic Games. Gesmalla's dedication to sprinting allowed him to compete at a high level and demonstrate his talent on the international stage. His presence in the sporting world as a sprinter has left a mark on the history of Sudanese athletics.

Tobi Pelly is a Sudanese boxer who competed at the 1984 and 1988 Summer Olympics. His notable Olympic appearance was in 1984 when he faced Paul Fitzgerald of Ireland. Pelly's professional career as a boxer showcased his determination and skill on an international stage. His participation in the Olympics demonstrates his commitment to the sport and his ability to compete at a high level. Pelly's competitive spirit and sportsmanship were evident throughout his career as he represented his country with pride and dedication.

Alego Akomi is a Sudanese boxer known for his participation in the men's light flyweight event at the 1984 Summer Olympics. Throughout his professional career, he displayed exceptional skill and dedication in the sport of boxing, earning recognition for his achievements on the international stage. Akomi's performance at the Olympics highlighted his talent and commitment to the sport, leaving a lasting impression on fans and fellow athletes alike. His contributions to the boxing world serve as a testament to his passion and hard work in the ring.

Ahmed Adam Salah is a Sudanese long-distance runner who competed in the men's marathon at the 1996 Summer Olympics. He dedicated himself to training and competing at a high level in the sport of long-distance running. His participation in the Olympics showcased his commitment and dedication to his athletic career. Salah's achievements in the field of marathon running highlight his talent and endurance as an athlete, earning him recognition for his contributions to the sport on a global stage.

Mirza Adil is a Sudanese weightlifter who competed in the 1960 Summer Olympics. He dedicated himself to the sport of weightlifting, showcasing his strength and skill on an international stage. Adil's commitment to training and competition allowed him to represent his country with pride at the Olympic Games. Through his participation in the Olympics, he inspired fellow athletes and spectators alike with his athleticism and determination. Adil's performance in weightlifting serves as a testament to his hard work and passion for the sport.

Mohamed Hammad is a Sudanese boxer who competed in the men's super heavyweight event at the 1988 Summer Olympics. Throughout his professional career, he demonstrated exceptional skill and determination in the sport of boxing. Hammad's participation in the Olympics showcased his commitment to representing his country on an international stage. His achievements in the ring served as a source of inspiration for aspiring boxers and sports enthusiasts, leaving a lasting impact on the boxing community.