Waseem Abu Sal

Waseem Abu Sal (born June 14, 2004, in Em Al Sharayet, Ramallah) is a Palestinian featherweight boxer (57kg) who made history as the first boxer to represent Palestine at the Olympic Games. A symbol of resilience and national pride, Waseem carried the Palestinian flag at the 2024 Paris Olympics opening ceremony, wearing a shirt designed by Mai Salameh that reflected hope for his people. Waseem began boxing at age 11 when his father brought him to El Barrio Gym and introduced him to coach Nader Jayousi with the words: "This is my son, make him a champion." Since then, his journey has been marked by relentless training, powerful mentorship, and a commitment to using sport as a form of expression under occupation. Despite facing constant challenges - from limited training resources to travel restrictions - Waseem has risen on the international stage. His achievements include a bronze medal at the 2023 Pan-Arab Sports Games, standout participation in the 2022 Asian Games in Hangzhou, and a silver medal at the 2021 Montenegro Box Cup. He first made waves as a 12-year-old, winning gold at the Hvidovre Boxing Cup in Denmark, which cemented his belief in his path. Known by nicknames like “Waseemov” and “El Caesar,” he draws strength from his family, his coach, his team captain Islam Ireshid, and the collective spirit of Palestine. For Waseem, boxing is a voice - a way to fight for dignity, visibility, and the future of his community.