Saudi Arabia’s Kariman Abuljadayel ran the 100 meter at 14.61 seconds placing 23rd in the preliminary race at the Rio Olympics on Friday.
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Saudi Arabia sprinter Kariman Abuljadayel made history as she became the first woman from the Kingdom to compete in the 100m sprint.
The 22-year-old sported a black full-body kit and a hijab as she raced down the track, to the delight of fans both at the Games and following her exploits on television and online.
Abuljadayel was not the only woman competing in 100meter sprint wearing hijab, as Afghanistan’s Kamia Yousuf also took part in the race, and finished on the last place.
Saudi Arabian sprinter Kariman Abuljadayel.
Abuljadayel, who was wearing a hijab and a tracksuit that covered all of her arms and legs, earned the praise and admiration among social media users.
Middle distance runner Sarah Attar was the first female track athlete to run for Saudi Arabia, at London 2012.
Three of the four women, including Attar, train in the United States using their student status, although Attar is no longer a student.
But officials demanded that all female competitors would be dressed “to preserve their dignity” – hence the modest, long-sleeved garments and hijab covering the hair.
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Abuljadayel is among the four female Saudi athletes participating in the Rio Olympics.
