Reflecting on the Qatar World Cup as an Arab-American

The Middle East’s first World Cup has brought with it a lot of baggage but also moments to be proud of for every Arab that enjoys the world’s game

The World Cup, much like the Olympics, is one of those sporting events that transcend the regular vibes of professional sports. This event is always a big deal, where the best players that play the world’s favorite game compete against one another for the pride and reputation of their country. This is a tournament where players from smaller countries make a name for themselves, and where the giants of the sport show their dominance and skill.

It is a tournament that represents the enjoyment of a beautiful game, the pride of one’s country, and a highlighting of the culture of the host nation. This years World Cup is of course a different World Cup. Much like in 2010 when South Africa hosted the first tournament on the African continent, this year sees the tournament held in Qatar, the first Arab nation to host a World Cup. This decision has been received with hostility in the west centering around the way that Qatar won its bid and the lives that have been lost in the process of building the 7 new stadiums where the games are being played. It is yet to be seen how history will look back on this World Cup when it comes to FIFA’s rampant corruption and accusations against Qatar. But as…