In a special sporting event held in the holiest place on earth, the brilliant Moroccan sports commentator Jawad Badah, who works for beIN SPORTS channels, was crowned the Arab Commentator of the Year 2025, after winning the 22nd edition of the Zahed Qudsi Award for Sports Commentary. The ceremony took place in the Himma Hall in the Al-Shawqiyah district of Mecca, amidst a distinguished gathering of prominent sports, media, and social figures.
The ceremony, sponsored by Al-Wahda Club President Hatem Khimi and businessman Mahmoud Sanki, was attended by prominent figures in the sports world, including the President of the Saudi Basketball Federation, Ghassan bin Yousef Tashkandi, and the Vice President of Al-Wahda Club, Dr. Turki Madkhali. The evening was characterized by a celebratory atmosphere that reflected the deep bonds between Arab sports journalists. The event not only celebrated Badah's achievement but also honored other prominent figures who have served Saudi sports, most notably the veteran commentator Ghazi Sadaqa and the dean of Saudi fans, Ati Al-Murki, in a gesture of appreciation for their long careers.
In his moving acceptance speech, Jawad Badah expressed his overwhelming joy, noting the special significance of the occasion. He said, "Thank God I have been awarded this prestigious and unique prize, celebrated in the holiest of places, among this distinguished gathering." With genuine emotion, he added that this honor had helped him forget "the pain and sorrow of losing the Africa Cup of Nations," expressing his gratitude to the organizers and hoping that the award would continue to be a beacon of recognition for commentators, who are often overlooked for the honor they deserve.
The Zahed Qudsi Award holds immense historical and professional significance in the Arab sports world. It is the first award dedicated to honoring sports commentators and bears the name of the late pioneer Zahed Qudsi, considered one of the founders of the school of sports commentary in Saudi Arabia and the Arab world. This annual award commemorates his memory and encourages the vocal talents that bring excitement and passion to football matches, making winning it a prestigious professional recognition of a commentator's talent and influence on audiences.
Jawad Badah's victory in this edition is a culmination of a distinguished career behind the microphone, where he is known for his powerful voice, extensive football knowledge, and passionate style that has become etched in the memories of Arab fans at numerous international and continental events. This recognition in Mecca reflects the appreciation of Saudi sports institutions for Arab talent and reinforces the Kingdom's position as a hub for major sporting and media events, underscoring the vital role of the sports commentator as an integral part of the modern football system.
