‘You can’t swim’: The rejection that fuelled Maha Al Shehhi’s Olympic journey

Maha Al Shehhi, a 20-year-old Emirati swimmer, faced rejection at a young age that fueled her Olympic journey. At the age of 13, she discovered that there were no established pathways for female swimmers in the United Arab Emirates. When informed that she was not allowed to train and swim due to her gender, Al Shehhi was deeply affected.

She questioned the reality of the situation, wondering how it could be impossible for her to swim. Her family then embarked on a search for a pool that would allow her and her sisters to swim and train alongside boys. The lack of a clear pathway became the driving force behind her determination to create one.

Al Shehhi made history in 2024 when she represented the UAE at the Paris Olympics. She swam a personal best time of 2:17.17 in the 200 metres freestyle, showcasing her dedication and talent. She believes that progress in sports lies in removing the sense of novelty surrounding female athletes. Al Shehhi aims to make it normal for everyone, regardless of gender, to compete in all disciplines.

She emphasizes the need for a consistent and supportive environment, as exemplified by her family's unwavering encouragement and belief in her abilities.

Growing up as one of three Al Shehhi sisters, Maha's mother played a crucial role in her journey. Her mother, a former athlete, provided the initial support and understanding of the sport's demands. Her father, initially cautious about his daughters training in a predominantly male environment, eventually came around and became their strongest supporter.

Their mother, on the other hand, ensures that Al Shehhi remains motivated and happy by reminding her of her purpose and the impact she can have on the younger generation. Despite facing numerous challenges and moments of doubt, Al Shehhi's strong support system and fierce competitive nature have propelled her forward, enabling her to defy those who told her "no."