When Darwish Al Rashidi dashed across the track waving the UAE flag in the Dubai 2025 Asian Youth Para Games promotional video, he never imagined this moment would catapult him into the spotlight as one of the event’s most recognizable young figures. The video became a sensation, transforming this reserved table tennis player from the UAE into a symbol of pride, bravery, and youthful spirit.
At just 12, Darwish is stepping into one of the most significant milestones of his young life – representing the UAE for the first time at the Dubai 2025 AYPG. With a serene smile and eager eyes, he enters the venue not just as a competitor, but as a young boy discovering his future self.
Darwish’s unexpected journey into sports began when asked about his start in table tennis. He chuckled and confessed, “My mother urged me to join the club. Initially, I was reluctant. But I changed my mind, and once I started, I grew to love it.”
Now, after a year of training, he stands on the international stage. Balancing education and sports, he attends Grade 7 at Al Qeyam School. Surprisingly, he shared, “No, my school doesn’t know I’m a Para athlete.”
Although table tennis is his current sport, Darwish’s heart belongs to football. With a broad smile, he said, “Given a choice between football and table tennis, I’d choose football.”
His favorite team is Barcelona, and he dreams of visiting Saudi Arabia to watch Cristiano Ronaldo play live. When asked about his ultimate sports goal, he didn’t hesitate, saying, “I want to compete at the Paralympics.”
Darwish’s ambitions extend beyond table tennis and football. Energetic and inquisitive, he revealed, “I want to explore more sports,” mentioning cycling as his next interest.
At home, life is vibrant and full of laughter — he’s the middle sibling among four, with two brothers and two sisters. When he’s not training, Darwish delights in playing ludo with his family.
Born with a right upper limb disability, the young Emirati speaks about it with maturity and strength beyond his years. The support from the UAE and Dubai club has been invaluable to him.
“They are very supportive,” he warmly acknowledged. “They support me and other athletes.”
As he embarks on the Asian Youth Para Games, his goal is straightforward and humble: “I want to gain experience to understand how the games work.”
Recently, Darwish became an online sensation after a video of him proudly running with the UAE flag went viral. Becoming the face of the Games hasn’t overwhelmed him; it has instilled a sense of pride.
“It feels great, and I’m so proud,” he expressed.
Representing the UAE is an honor he embraces wholeheartedly. As he takes his initial steps into the international Para sports arena, one thing is clear – Darwish is not just participating; he’s embarking on a journey filled with dreams, courage, and limitless opportunities.
