| Fatma Al Nabhani Professional Tennis and Padel Athlete, Member of the Padel National Committee In her career, she won 10 singles and 14 doubles titles on the ITF Women’s Circuit. On 4 October 2010, she reached her best singles ranking of world No. 362. On 28 April 2014, she peaked at No. 238 in the doubles rankings. Al-Nabhani made her WTA Tour main-draw debut at the 2009 Dubai Tennis Championships, having received a wildcard with Magali de Lattre in the doubles tournament, but they lost to Chan Yung-jan and Sun Tiantian in the first round. Playing for Oman in Fed Cup competition, Al Nabhani has a win–loss record of 13–7.[1] Al-Nabhani is the younger sister of Mohammed Al-Nabhani, who is also a tennis player. Fatma Al-Nabhani is Oman’s most celebrated tennis player and sports personality. She has been an influencing figure in women’s sports in the region. Starting out young, She has won ten singles titles and 13 doubles titles on the ITF Circuit. On 4 October 2010, she reached her best singles ranking of world No. 362. On 28 April 2014, she peaked at No. 238 in the doubles rankings. |
Can you tell us about your journey into the world of tennis? What initially inspired you to pursue a career in this sport?
Tennis was a natural journey for me as I was raised into an athletic family. It all started with my mother who instilled in us this sport.
As Oman’s most celebrated tennis player, what were some of the unique challenges you faced as a woman in a sport that is still developing in your country?
Luckily my country is largely supportive of female progression across all sectors. With tennis in particular a major obstacle is continuous financial support as it is dependent on international tournaments which along with that requires heavy training to meet international standards.
Could you share any specific instances or experiences where you faced obstacles or discrimination due to your gender, and how you overcame them?
Oman has always supported my career so I truly am lucky to have rarely faced discrimination. I hope with time that the gender gap diffuses worldwide.
What role has your family played in supporting your tennis career, especially considering that your brother, Mohammed Al-Nabhani, is also a professional tennis player?
Actually both my brothers are professional tennis players , Khalid, and Mohammed along with my mom always help support each other till date
You have been an influential figure in women’s sports in the region. How do you think your success has impacted the perception of women in sports in Oman and the Middle East?
I believe being the only female tennis player during my earlier time helped elevate Oman as a country and also females in the middle east. I’m glad that many now have followed various sports.
How do you balance the expectations of being a top athlete with the cultural and societal expectations placed on women in the region?
Again our country luckily does not antagonize norms towards the advancement of females. Females can be anything they want.
Looking back on your career, are there any moments or achievements that you are particularly proud of, and why do they stand out to you?
Holding the Olympic torch never seizes to amaze me and my natural move to padel has helped elevate my skill set
What advice would you give to young girls in Oman and the region who aspire to follow in your footsteps and pursue a career in sports?
Sports have an incredible way of shaping a human. For females in particular it instills in you endurance and a strong will to enable the best of you.