In recent years, sports have become a significant aspect of life for many around the world, providing not only physical benefits but also opportunities for people to learn life lessons. From an Islamic perspective, sports can be means of fostering discipline, strength and humility, all while nurturing a balanced lifestyle. The recent visit of renowned mixed martial artist Khabib Nurmagomedov to Malaysia highlighted these values and his message resonated with many Muslims and non-Muslims alike.
Khabib Nurmagomedov, a former UFC lightweight champion and undefeated fighter, made a significant impact during his visit to Malaysia. Known not only for his success in the octagon but also for his deep commitment to his Islamic faith, Khabib’s visit was much anticipated. Thousands of fans gathered to meet him, not just to celebrate his sporting achievements but also to seek wisdom from a man who is a role model for balancing faith and professional success.
During his time in Malaysia, Khabib’s message was clear: humility and respect for parents are core principles, not only in Islam but also in life. In several public appearances, Khabib emphasized that everything we achieved is a gift from Allah and that success should never make one arrogant.
Khabib reminded his fans to remain grounded and not to lose sight of their faith. He stressed, “Respect your parents, be humble and always remember that everything we have is from Allah.” This message of humility in success struck a chord with Malaysians, particularly the youth who see Khabib as a living example of how to integrate faith and professionalism in a world that often glorifies material success over spiritual values.
Apart from spreading his message of humility, Khabib’s visit to Malaysia was also marked by his charitable contributions. Khabib has been actively involved in philanthropy and during his time in Malaysia, he donated significant amounts to various charitable causes. Reports suggest that his contributions totalled approximately RM500,000, directed toward orphanages, Islamic schools (madrasahs) and community development projects. These donations were aimed at helping those in need especially children, reflecting Khabib’s commitment to giving back to society—a principle that is highly encouraged in Islam.
Charity (or sadaqah) is a fundamental component of Islamic life. It reflects one’s gratitude to Allah for the blessings bestowed upon them and serves as means of purifying wealth and helping the less fortunate. Khabib’s actions in Malaysia were a testament to his understanding of this principle. By using his fame and resources for the betterment of others, he demonstrated that true success in life is not measured by material wealth or titles, but by one’s ability to give back and support those in need.
Khabib is not the only Muslim athlete who uses his platform to promote Islamic values. Many other athletes have successfully integrated their faith with their careers, serving as role models for millions of fans around the world.
Mohamed Salah has donated millions to various causes in Egypt including healthcare, education and infrastructures. In 2020, Salah donated around £2.5 million (approximately $3.1 million) to build a school and medical centre in his hometown Nagrig. He also provided £400,000 (around $500,000) to the Egyptian government for medical equipment during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Paul Pogba (France Footballer) is a regular contributor to humanitarian efforts, including building wells and supporting youth education in Africa. In 2017, Pogba donated around €100,000 (approximately $117,000) to build wells in Guinea to provide clean water.
Amir Khan (Boxer, UK). Through the Amir Khan Foundation, he has supported numerous causes such as disaster relief efforts and aid to the homeless. In 2021, Khan donated £100,000 (approximately $120,000) to the Rohingya refugee crisis and raised over £1 million for various global humanitarian projects including food distribution and education.
Riyad Mahrez (Footballer, Algeria/France). Mahrez has supported multiple causes, including children’s education and health initiatives in Algeria and France. Mahrez has not publicly revealed the specific amounts but is known to donate regularly to Algerian charitable organizations.
Mesut Özil** (Footballer, Germany). Özil has donated to hospitals, provided meals to the needy, and supported surgeries for children in need. Özil paid for 1,000 children’s surgeries in developing countries and during his wedding, he pledged to feed 100,000 people in refugee camps across Turkey and Syria. The estimated cost of his wedding charity is around €2 million
Sadio Mané (Footballer, Senegal). Mané has built schools, hospitals, and mosques in Senegal and regularly supports local communities. Mané donated around £250,000 (approximately $320,000) to build a school and hospital in his hometown of Bambali, Senegal. He continues to contribute to community welfare projects.
Kyrie Irving (Basketball Player, USA – Convert to Islam). Irving has supported a variety of causes, including donations to the Standing Rock Sioux tribe and helping feed families during the pandemic. In 2020, Irving donated $1.5 million to WNBA players who opted out of the season due to COVID-19 concerns. He also provided $323,000 to the Feeding America organization.
Karim Benzema** (Footballer, France). Benzema has been involved in various humanitarian efforts, supporting causes related to children, health, and disaster relief.
While Benzema often keeps his donations private, it is reported that he has contributed significant amounts to various charitable efforts, including support for Palestinian causes.
Abderrazak Hamdallah** (Footballer, Morocco). Hamdallah is known for his donations to hospitals and funding surgeries for children in Morocco. Hamdallah has donated over $200,000 to build a hospital and provide medical equipment for underprivileged communities in Morocco.
These athletes exemplify how success in sports can be coupled with philanthropy, making significant contributions to improve the lives of those in need. Many prefer to keep their charitable activities private, but their influence and generosity have been widely recognized.
Islam encourages physical activity and sports, as they promote good health, discipline, and camaraderie. Prophet Muhammad s.a.w (peace be upon him) himself encouraged activities such as archery, horse riding, swimming and these are often cited as examples of how Islam views sports as beneficial to the human body and soul. However, it is also important in Islam to conduct oneself with dignity, fairness, and humility in both victory and defeat.
Islam teaches that life in this world is temporary, and that everything we possess whether wealth, fame, or power is a test from Allah. No matter how successful one becomes, they are reminded that ultimately, all will return to Allah, leaving behind their material possessions.
This is clearly stated in the Quran, in Surah Al-Hadid (57:20), which says, “Know that the life of this world is but play and amusement, pomp and mutual boasting and multiplying among yourselves, riches and children. Here is a similitude how rain and the growth which is bring forth, delight (the hearts of) the tillers, soon it withers, thou wilt it grow yellow , then become dry and crumbles away. But in the Hereafter is a Penalty severe (for the devotees of wrong) and Forgiveness from God and (His) Good Pleasure (for the devotees of God). And what is the life of this world, but good and chattels of deception? This verse highlights that despite the wealth, success, and accolades one might accumulate, the reality is that all of it is fleeting. What remains are the good deeds one performs and the impact they have on others.