Layan Jouhari emerges as a rising star in the fast-evolving landscape of women's football in Saudi Arabia, symbolizing the remarkable progress the sport has made in recent years. At just 23 years old, hailing from Jeddah, Jouhari has already achieved milestones that were once deemed unattainable.
Her journey encompasses a dual role: a key player for Al-Ittihad in the Saudi Women's Premier League and a prominent figure representing her country on the international football stage. Beyond her on-field exploits, Jouhari has now become the voice of Saudi Arabia's ambitious bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
"We're on an exciting journey, but we're just getting started..."
— Saudi Arabian Football Federation (@saudiff_en) March 4, 2024
A story about what football means to us narrated by Saudi women's national team player Layan Jouhari.
Watch the full #Saudi2034bid film to find out.#GrowingTogetherhttps://t.co/EJF1QZOhVK pic.twitter.com/SO9I5WTVrN
In a promotional video released by the Saudi Arabian Football Federation, Jouhari articulates the nation's aspirations behind hosting the prestigious tournament. Her selection for this significant role fills her with immense joy and pride, reflecting the magnitude of the opportunity.
Jouhari's emotional connection to the script is palpable as she recounts her experience recording the voiceover. The narrative celebrates Saudi Arabia's football heritage, featuring iconic moments like Saeed Al-Owairan's legendary goal in 1994 and Salem Al-Dawsari's historic strike in 2022, dotted with pictures showing the nation's stunning scenery and the passionate support of football supporters.
The video emphasizes football's power to transcend boundaries and unite people globally, echoing Jouhari's sentiment that football is more than just a game; it's a passion and a universal language.
Jouhari effortlessly embodies the spirit of the script, conveying the nation's enthusiasm and ambition for the World Cup bid. She acknowledges the transformative role of football icons like Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar in elevating Saudi Arabia's football profile on the world stage.
Furthermore, the video underscores the commitment to nurturing grassroots talent and fostering inclusivity within the sport. Jouhari expresses her excitement about the prospect of Saudi Arabia hosting the 2034 World Cup, believing it to be a testament to the nation's progress, particularly in the sports industry.
Beyond her contributions on the field, Jouhari's involvement in projects like the FIFA+ documentary "Destined to Play" showcases her dedication to promoting women's football in Saudi Arabia. Her impact extends beyond the sport, inspiring a new generation of aspiring footballers.
As Saudi Arabia gears up for the World Cup, Jouhari remains optimistic about the nation's ability to host a successful tournament, emphasizing the positive impact it would have on the entire football community, including women's football. Her journey exemplifies the transformative power of sports in driving societal change and fostering inclusivity.
