The Saudi sports community, and specifically fans of Al-Wahda Club, were gripped by concern after the announcement that the club's president, Captain Hatem Khimi, was rushed to a hospital in Mecca on Tuesday afternoon. This sudden development came after he suffered a severe fainting spell that required immediate medical intervention. Initial tests revealed a sharp rise in blood pressure accompanied by extreme physical and mental exhaustion.
The medical team overseeing Khaimi's case decided to place him under close observation for 24 hours to ensure the stability of his vital signs and to be completely reassured about his health, recommending that he be kept completely away from any sources of stress or work pressures that were the main cause of this health problem.
Behind the scenes of the last days before the illness
According to details revealed by private sources to the Okaz newspaper, the president of the Makkah club has not had a moment's rest or a proper night's sleep for the past five days. This is due to his intense focus on handling complex and crucial matters concerning the club's various teams. He has been working around the clock to finalize intricate financial and technical arrangements to ensure the club's stability, a burden that has ultimately led to his health collapse.
Absence from the Al-Faisaly match
This sudden illness prevented Hatem Khimi from attending his team's crucial match this evening in Mecca against Al-Faisaly. The match ended in a 2-2 draw, a result reflecting the intense competition and pressure surrounding league matches, which often place club presidents under considerable psychological strain.
Hatem Khimi... A journey of love and loyalty
It is worth noting that Hatem Khimi is not just a passing administrator in the history of Al-Wahda Club, but one of the club's most prominent legends as a former player and historic captain of the "Knights of Mecca." He is known for his deep emotional connection to Al-Wahda, having spent his entire sporting career within the club's walls, defending its colors. This close connection explains why he shoulders administrative burdens beyond his capacity, handling club matters with the passion of a devoted fan and the diligence of a responsible official. This makes him susceptible to health pressures resulting from constant stress and the desire to achieve the best for the club's vast fan base.
This incident highlights the enormous responsibilities that fall on the shoulders of the heads of Saudi clubs, in light of the high competitiveness and increasing public and media demands, which makes administrative work in the sports field fraught with health and psychological risks.
