The World Cup is the world’s international soccer tournament and is held every four years in a different country. The first World Cup was held in 1930 and included men’s teams from 13 countries; today 48 national teams are playing. However, the World Cup is not just about the sport; to people, it is about national pride, identity, unity, and shared humanity.
This year's World Cup is unique for two reasons: one, it’s not only being played in one country but three countries: the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Two, Jordan will participate in the tournament for the first time ever. I spoke to Dr. Ead Najwadi about what it means to him that Jordan has this opportunity to play in the tournament and what the World Cup means to him.
Najdawi said that he is proud of Jordan’s team members for their hard work and achievement. He is proud that the players are raising the flag but representing the people of Jordan on a world stage. Najdawi also mentioned how it's not just about the sport; it's about nations, histories, traditions, cultures, and identities coming together with elite competition.
During our conversation we talked about some countries that are facing hardships and use the World Cup as a symbol of hope. By watching teams play people feel unity.
Toward the end of our conversation, Dr. Najdawi talked about how while his sons were growing up, they would watch the World Cup together. He said he is unsure what contributed to his sons’ fondness for the sport as each of them at one point in their lives played soccer. Najdawi says he is planning to have conversations with his sons after watching some of the games.
The first games of the tournament started on Thursday, with Mexico and South Korea each winning against their opponents. I talked with Dr. Najdawi about what the World Cup means to him and how it represents so much more than just being a sport. We also talked about how it can bring families together.
