Could you briefly introduce yourself —your name, age, sport, city of birth, and when you
started practicing your discipline?
My name is Ruba Mohammed Al-Masri, I’m a Saudi sabre fencer from madinah, born and
raised in riyadh. I picked up the sword for the first time in 2018, when I was still in high school.
What started as curiosity quickly became passion and, eventually, my path.
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How did you first discover your sport, and what inspired you to pursue it seriously?
Fencing wasn’t a common sport for girls in Saudi Arabia when I began. I actually discovered it
through my father, who’s always been an athlete and encouraged me to explore different sports.
The first time I held a sabre, I was captivated by its mix of precision, speed, and elegance. It’s
both mental and physical, like a chess match at lightning speed. Once I realized that, I knew I
wanted to pursue it seriously.
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What has been the most defining or powerful moment in your journey so far?
Winning my first international medal a bronze at the U23 European Championships was
definitely a turning point. Standing on that podium, knowing I was representing Saudi Arabia, felt
surreal. But even more defining was being appointed as Saudi Arabia’s first female FISU
Student-Sports Ambassador. That role gave me a platform to inspire other young women who
dream of competing at the highest level.
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What’s the biggest lesson sport has taught you?
That discipline and patience always pay off. Fencing taught me that success isn’t just about
talent it’s about resilience. Every defeat is a lesson, every injury a reminder of how much you
want it. The piste teaches you humility and courage in equal measure.
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Do you have any rituals, habits, or little secrets before a competition?
I always take a few minutes alone before each match just me, my headphones, and deep
breathing. I visualize every move, every touch, every reaction. And I never forget to whisper
“Bismillah” before stepping onto the piste. It centers me.
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How would you describe the evolution of sport in Saudi Arabia, and how has it influenced
your path?
The evolution has been incredible and honestly, I’m proud to be part of this transformation.
When I started, female fencing was still finding its footing. Now, we have national programs,
training camps, and growing visibility. The support from the Saudi Olympic Committee and the
Ministry of Sports has opened doors that didn’t exist a decade ago. It’s not just about competing
anymore it’s about paving the way for those who come after us.
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What does it mean to you to be a Saudi athlete today?
It means responsibility and pride. Every time I wear the green and white, I know I’m not just
representing myself I’m representing a new chapter for Saudi women in sport. It’s a reminder that
change is possible, and that we’re writing history one match at a time.
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If you could share a message with young Saudi women athletes or the next generation, what
would it be?
Believe that your dreams are valid even if no one around you has done it before. You don’t need
permission to chase excellence. Start, stay consistent, and trust that the world will make space
for your passion. And most importantly, support one another our strength multiplies when we lift
each other up.
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What has been the biggest challenge you’ve had to overcome in your career?
Balancing everything my academic studies in law and aesthetics, my career as a marketer in 3
different companies, my training, travel, and competitions. There were times when it felt
impossible, especially with limited resources early on. But I learned how to adapt, to prioritize,
and to lean on my team and family when I needed strength.
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Could you share a fun fact or unexpected anecdote about yourself that few people know?
I’m actually a bit of an WWE nerd! I enjoy watching in my free time it helps me clear my mind and stay creative. Also, people are always surprised that I love coffee way too much for an athlete who needs to stay calm before matches. (Let’s just say caffeine and sabres don’t always mix.)
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And finally, what keeps you motivated, even in the toughest moments?
Knowing that every time I step on the piste, I’m proving to another girl back home that she can too. That’s what keeps me going the idea that my journey can spark someone else’s. My dream is to see more Saudi women with sabres, foils, and épées in their hands, ready to write the nextchapter of our story.