AMN EXPLAINS: Why Do So Many Muslim Soccer Players Make Sajdah or Raise Their Hands in Prayer During the World Cup?
As millions of fans watch the FIFA World Cup, many have noticed Muslim players celebrating and preparing for matches in ways that may be unfamiliar to them. Whether it’s a player going into prostration after scoring or raising their hands in prayer before kickoff, these moments are deeply rooted in the Islamic faith.
One of the most recognizable sights is a player scoring a goal and immediately placing their forehead on the ground. This is known as Sajdat ash-Shukr (the Prostration of Gratitude).
For Muslims, every blessing and success ultimately comes from Allah. Rather than taking personal credit for an achievement, many athletes choose to thank Allah through this brief act of worship. The prostration is not directed toward the crowd, teammates, or the game itself—it is an expression of humility and gratitude to Allah.
Many well-known Muslim footballers have celebrated goals this way over the years, including Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mané, and Achraf Hakimi.
Fans have also noticed Lamine Yamal raising his hands before matches. For Muslims, this is known as duaa—a personal supplication to Allah. It is a moment to ask for guidance, protection, strength, focus, and success before stepping onto the field.
Just like sajdah after a goal, making duaa before a match is not done for the cameras. It is a personal act of faith that happens in a very public setting.
Islam teaches believers to remember Allah in every part of life—during moments of joy, hardship, victory, and uncertainty. For many Muslim athletes, faith is not something they leave in the locker room; it is part of who they are.
So the next time you see a Muslim player prostrate after scoring or quietly raise their hands in prayer before kickoff, you’re witnessing more than a celebration or a pregame ritual. You’re witnessing an expression of faith, humility, and gratitude shared by millions of Muslims around the world.
Article written by Kevin Shakil
Image Credit: Jessica Tobias – FR172197 / AP