Moroj Adil - Interview

Moroj Adil found her pedals when she lost her father. What began as a mechanism to cope with grief evolved into a historic professional career, making her the first Saudi woman to compete in the NEOM Titan Desert Race. When the race officials told her she was out, she kept riding—alone, through the night, for twelve hours total. She didn’t cross the finish line for the clock. She crossed it for herself.

Could you briefly introduce yourself — your name, age, sport, city of birth, and when you started
practicing your discipline?
My name is Moroj Adil, and I’m first Saudi professional cyclist. I was born in Makkah \ Saudi Arabia
1998, and I started practicing cycling around 3 years ago.

Could you briefly introduce yourself — your name, age, sport, city of birth, and when you started
practicing your discipline?
My name is Moroj Adil, and I’m first Saudi professional cyclist. I was born in Makkah \ Saudi Arabia
1998, and I started practicing cycling around 3 years ago.

How did you first discover your sport, and what inspired you to pursue it seriously?
I first discovered cycling after I lost my dad, losing my dad was the turning point in my life, cycling was
my sadness coping method. When I started cycling by the age of 24Y.s I had no skills and I even was
not know how balance on two wheels bike. What inspired me to pursue it seriously was the feeling of
freedom and challenge at the same time, and when I found out how pro cyclists live, I draw the image
of the life I want to live, and found the definition of success for me. Since then, I decided the path that I
want to follow.

How did you first discover your sport, and what inspired you to pursue it seriously?
I first discovered cycling after I lost my dad, losing my dad was the turning point in my life, cycling was
my sadness coping method. When I started cycling by the age of 24Y.s I had no skills and I even was
not know how balance on two wheels bike. What inspired me to pursue it seriously was the feeling of
freedom and challenge at the same time, and when I found out how pro cyclists live, I draw the image
of the life I want to live, and found the definition of success for me. Since then, I decided the path that I
want to follow.

  1. What has been the most defining or powerful moment in your journey so far?
    Being a pro cyclist, it means every day and every race is a test for my limits. There are so many
    unforgettable moments and experiences in the bucket. However, my first Neom Titan Desert Race is
    the most defining moment so far, it was my first MTB race and I was the first and only Saudi female
    taking part in this race,I kept riding even after I’ve been told I am out of the race, I finished the first
    stage after 12 hours of riding! The crowd, cheer, and clap when I crossed the finish line will never be
    erased from my memory
  2. What’s the biggest lesson sport has taught you?
    The biggest lesson sport has taught me is that it’s all about consistency and mental toughness. It’s
    easy to show up when things are going well, but the real growth happens on the hard days, when
    you’re tired, doubting yourself, or things don’t go your way. Cycling has taught me to stay patient, trust
    the process, and keep believing even when it’s tough. That mindset makes all the difference, both on
    and off the bike
  3. Do you have any rituals, habits, or little secrets before a competition?
    Before a race, I have a few small rituals that help me get in the right mindset. I usually start with some
    activation exercises. Then I spend a few minutes journaling, writing down my thoughts, intentions, and
    what I want to focus on during the race. It helps me clear my mind, stay calm, and approach the
    competition with confidence and purpose
  4. How would you describe the evolution of sport in Saudi Arabia, and how has it influenced your path?
    Sport in Saudi Arabia has grown tremendously over the past few years, with more opportunities, big
    events, and support for athletes than ever before. This evolution has opened doors for me and many
    others to pursue our passions professionally. Seeing our country invest in sports infrastructure and
    international competitions has been incredibly motivating
  5. What does it mean to you to be a Saudi athlete today?
    Being a Saudi athlete today means carrying both pride and responsibility. It’s about representing my
    country, showing what we’re capable of on the international stage, and inspiring young people to
    pursue their dreams
  6. If you could share a message with young Saudi women athletes or the next generation, what would it
    be?

    I’d say to every young Saudi athletes not only women: believe in yourself and your potential, even if
    the path isn’t always easy. Stay consistent, work hard, and don’t be afraid to have a big vision. Your
    dedication and courage can open doors, not just for yourself, but for everyone who comes after you !
  7. What has been the biggest challenge you’ve had to overcome in your career?
    One of the biggest challenges in my career has been living far away from home and my family. Being
    away for long periods can be tough, you miss important moments and the comfort of being with loved
    ones. But it’s also taught me independence, resilience, and the value of staying connected even from a
    distance. Every time I face that challenge, it reminds me why I’m pursuing this path and motivates me
    to keep pushing forward.
  8. Could you share a fun fact or unexpected anecdote about yourself that few people know?
    Most people don’t know that outside cycling, I’m obsessed with motorsports and architecture art. There’s
    something about both , the precision of racing and the creativity of architect that keeps me balanced and
    inspired
  9. And finally, what keeps you motivated, even in the toughest moments?
    Remembering why I started and the goals I want to achieve, is what keeps me motivated even in the
    toughest moments, challenges are part of the journey, pain, setbacks, and doubt are temporary, but
    growth and progress last. I also think about my family, team, and people who believe in me, and the
    younger athletes I hope to inspire. That combination of purpose, passion, and responsibility pushes me
    to keep going, no matter how hard it gets