Egyptian wrestler Ahmed Baghdoda, who created a social media stir with his unexpected escape to France, made a long-awaited appearance on his social media page on 4 June, after two weeks of silence.
Baghdoda, 21, addressed his family and fans through a video message on his official Facebook account.
In the video, the wrestler began by expressing his appreciation to President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi for instructing the National Training Academy (NTA) to provide him with a training and rehabilitation grant, according to the “Egyptian Streets” website.
Baghdoda, who snagged a silver medal in the African Wrestling Championship shortly before his disappearance, abruptly left the national team camp in Tunisia on 20 May.
The wrestler did not disclose his current location in the video, nor did he confirm his plans to continue representing the national team. However, the Egyptian Wrestling Federation’s President Essam El-Nawar believes Baghdoda fled to France.
The wrestler also expressed gratitude for the support received from his fellow countrymen, stating, “I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the incredible Egyptian people. You are the best thing in my life,” while requesting their prayers during this time.
