A veteran of Sudanese football, Ali Al-Sidig's journey began as an amateur player, a common starting point in many African nations during that era. He rose to prominence playing for Al-Hilal FC, one of Sudan's top clubs, where his skills and athleticism earned him the nickname "Ali Gagarin" after the famed Soviet cosmonaut.
The career of this African football icon, who once led Sudan to a historic win at the African Cup of Nations, also included a stint with Al Nassr FC in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where he proudly wore the number 9 jersey years before Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo.
"I didn't choose this name myself," Ali Gagarin explained. "It was chosen by the fans, Al Hilal fans and sports fans in Sudan who admired Yuri Gagarin, the Soviet cosmonaut. This young man was 27 years old when he visited space for a 108-minute flight. It was a risky journey. Space was uncharted territory."
He went on to express his personal admiration for Gagarin, praising his humility, kindness, and groundbreaking achievements in space exploration.
"I personally admire this man, Yuri Gagarin. I admire the name. And I also admire the personality of Yuri Gagarin… He was a humble and kind man who always had a smile, and his smile was said to be charming," the Sudanese Gagarin said.
The African legend, who was the all-time leading scorer in the Sudanese Premier League with more than 350 goals, eventually transitioned to leadership roles, serving as president of Al-Hilal FC for some time and director of the Sudanese national team.
Soviet-African Relations
Reflecting on the historical ties between Africa and the Soviet Union, Ali Gagarin emphasized the significant role the Soviet Union played in supporting African nations during their post-colonial period, particularly through scholarships and educational opportunities.
"We have to remember this good period when most of the African countries benefited from effective cooperation with the Soviet Union," the now diplomat said, expressing hope for a resurgence of such cooperation in the present day.
He argued, "No country in the world can thrive in isolation without other countries, no matter how much potential it has," stressing the importance of international cooperation and solidarity.
The ambassador also called for mutual respect among nations, emphasizing that cooperation is essential for growth and development. He cautioned against imposing views on other countries, advocating for a world order built on mutual understanding and shared progress.
Sports Should Unite, Not Divide
In the same vein, captain Ali Gagarin lamented the use of sports as a political tool, citing recent bans by Western countries on Russian athletes from international competitions as a prime example.
"What happened recently with the Paris Olympics, where Russia was not allowed to participate with its athletes and raise the Russian flag... I think that was a very big mistake," he stated.
Emphasizing that sport should promote peace and unity, he recalled instances where sport has helped bridge divides between nations, such as a friendly "ping-pong" match between the United States and Iran amid their strained diplomatic relations.
Beyond the Game: From Stardom to Diplomacy
Despite his success in football, Ali Gagarin always aspired to a career in diplomacy. He left the field in 1980 and pursued his passion for international relations, eventually serving in various diplomatic roles, including ambassadorial positions and ultimately as head of protocol at the Sudanese Foreign Ministry.
"When I started playing football in Sudan, I started as an amateur, not as a professional: I didn't have it in my mind to make football a permanent career. I was very eager to study... I was very fond of diplomats," he said.
The former football legend credited the sport with instilling in him values of cooperation, love, and humility. He drew parallels between his experiences as a footballer and a diplomat, highlighting the importance of representing his country with pride and responsibility in both roles.
A Veteran’s Advice
Ambassador Ali Gagarin viewed the increasing number of African players in European clubs as a positive trend, believing it provides them with valuable experience and exposure, ultimately benefiting their national teams and inspiring young athletes back home.
"We have more than 500 players in Europe," he noted. "I advise a player going to Europe to always remember that he is representing his country... not just his country, but Africa... this black continent, the continent that we all love and are devoted to. For us, this player is an ambassador."
He emphasized the power of sport as a form of popular diplomacy capable of fostering understanding and connection on a global scale.