Male' Maldives: After years of setbacks and sacrifices, Haisham Ibrahim Ali, 22, has earned his long-awaited place in the Maldives National Badminton Squad, marking a remarkable comeback story that has inspired athletes across the country.

Haisham’s journey began at the age of 17, when he left his home in Vaavu Atoll to join Revival Sports Club on a scholarship. Over four years of dedicated training, he developed rapidly.

Haisham's growth was remarkable, winning the Atoll League, pushing a defending national champion to the limit in a thrilling three-set battle, and impressing at his first international junior tournament in Turkey.

“Playing and practicing with Zayan, Naba, Naby, Nibal, Thoif, and Rishwan pushed me to improve constantly. Even then, I knew my level was rising,” Haisham, now 22, told Revival Sports Media.

His ultimate goal at the time was to represent Maldives at the Indian Ocean Island Games 2023 (IOIG) in Madagascar.

However, despite his strong ranking and consistent performances, Haisham was denied the opportunity to compete in the national selection process by the Badminton Association of Maldives (BAM). The exclusion was a devastating blow.

“My ranking was good, I was playing well, but I wasn’t given the fair chance I worked so hard for. It’s not easy leaving your home, your parents, and sacrificing everything for the sport, only to have it taken away from you,” Haisham recalled.

Disheartened, Haisham stepped away from badminton for two years, returning to his island life where he pursued photography and underwater adventures.

But the fire to compete never faded.

Earlier this month, when the national selection trials were announced, Haisham seized the moment. Determined to reclaim what he believed he deserved, he returned stronger than ever, winning all his matches in the selection group to secure a spot on the national squad.

“I’ve always had a great connection with my coach, Nashfan. He kept calling me, asking me to come back. When this opportunity came, I knew this was the time. I told coach, ‘I’m coming to do something. I’m coming to take what I deserve,’” Haisham said with joy.

Haisham emphasized the importance of fair national selections, stressing that they provide a pathway for every aspiring athlete to chase the dream of wearing the national colors.

With his return, Haisham not only secures his place in the squad but also symbolizes resilience, perseverance, and the spirit of countless Maldivian athletes who continue to fight for their rightful opportunities.