Ali Elzieny created a historic moment in Lucerne in the summer of 2024: Together with Marwa Abdelaal, the 39-year-old won Egypt’s first-ever international para-rowing medal. The images of their celebration after the race went viral around the world. But Elzieny is not just a successful athlete—he is also a war veteran. In this interview, he talks about his journey.
Ali Elzieny, in the summer of 2024, you and Marwa Abdelaal pulled off a sensation in Lucerne: Egypt’s first international para-rowing medal. What went through your mind that day?
It has been a few months now, but the memory still feels fresh and vivid. When we crossed the finish line, I felt a mix of joy, relief, and pride—the moment I had dreamed of for so long had finally become reality.
Was there a moment during the race when you knew: Today, we’re going to win a medal?
Yes and no. At first, I had no sense of our position. I was completely focused, with just one goal in mind: to row each 500-meter section better than the last. But early in the race, another thought crossed my mind: I’m not leaving this country without a medal!
Your celebration after the finish was electrifying. What emotions were running through you at that moment?
After my injury, I didn’t know for a long time what would come next. Para-rowing gave me a new opportunity to compete at a high level. The dream of winning a medal slowly returned. When we crossed the finish line in Lucerne, it felt like waking up from a dream—and that dream had become reality!
How did you celebrate this historic success?
It felt like Eid al-Fitr, the festival marking the end of Ramadan. I sat in my hotel room with my medal, calling everyone I knew and sending messages to family and friends. But the biggest moment came in Cairo: At the airport, we were welcomed by family members, friends, club teammates, and federation officials. That recognition meant the world to me.
What does this medal mean for para-rowing in Egypt?
That remains to be seen. But medals help attract attention and support. It was important to show that Egypt can achieve international success in this sport.
How did you get into rowing in the first place?
I started rowing in 1999, long before I joined the army and before my injury. During my military service, I only rowed as a hobby. It was only after my injury that I returned to competitive sports.
Can you tell us about the injury that led to the amputation of your leg?
The incident happened in 2018 on the Sinai Peninsula. I was part of a special forces unit operating against terrorists. During a battle, I was hit. It wasn’t my first injury in action—I had previously been shot in the back and chest. I always managed to recover and return to my unit. But this time, the injury was so severe that my leg had to be amputated.
How was the transition from the military to para-sports?
After my injury, I was assigned to desk duty. Instead of training and participating in missions, I spent my days sitting at a desk. I needed an outlet. So, I started training again—first in the gym, then in a single scull. Rowing helped me not just physically but also mentally.
Did you perhaps also find a new way to serve your country through rowing?
Definitely. Whether in the military or in sports, my goal is to give my best and overcome challenges. In that sense: Yes, I want to represent my country as an athlete and deliver results.
After your success in Lucerne, you competed at the Paralympics in Paris. How was that experience?
The results were not quite what we had hoped for. But I take the best from this experience and will learn from it for the next time.
That sounds like Los Angeles 2028 is your next big goal.
Yes, in the long term, Los Angeles 2028 is the goal. But there are many challenges to overcome before then. I’m focusing on international competitions and want to compete more in the single scull alongside the mixed double.
Will we see you back in Lucerne on your way to Los Angeles?
Definitely! I’d love to race in Lucerne again. The city is beautiful, and the regatta on Rotsee is extremely well organized. A professionally run competition helps athletes focus on their race—and I really appreciate that.
Von: Ismail Osman, Schriber Kommunikation
