ROME — In a move that marks a milestone for Saudi football, Saud Abdulhamid has completed his historic transfer to AS Roma, becoming the first player from the Kingdom to join one of Europe's elite football leagues. At just 25, the Roshn Saudi League winner with Al-Hilal is set to don the prestigious No.12 jersey for the Italian Serie A giants. His arrival in Rome was met with significant fanfare, following a successful medical examination that sealed his move on Monday. A stalwart of Saudi football, Abdulhamid's journey from the local pitches of Riyadh to the international grounds of Rome is not just a personal achievement but a giant leap for Saudi footballers aspiring to compete on the global stage. His transition from Al-Ittihad, where he started his professional career and made 72 appearances, to becoming a key figure at Al-Hilal, underscores a career marked by relentless ambition and skill. During his tenure at Al-Hilal, Abdulhamid not only won the league title twice but also clinched the King's Cup and the Saudi Super Cup twice, embodying the spirit and the fight of a true sportsman. His recent performance in the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, especially during Saudi Arabia's stunning 2-1 victory against Argentina, highlighted his international caliber. As AS Roma welcomes its newest defender, the Italian club, and its legion of fans are eager to see how Abdulhamid adapts to and excels in the challenging and competitive environment of Serie A. This move is not just about a change in leagues for Abdulhamid; it is about setting a precedent for Saudi athletes everywhere. With the Saudi Pro League having nurtured him, Abdulhamid now steps onto a bigger stage, ready to showcase the richness of Saudi football talent to the world. His story is a beacon for many young Saudi athletes, illustrating that with talent, determination, and the right opportunities, the football fields of Europe are within their reach.
