Ahmed Tijan needs little or no introduction in the world of volleyball. Since 2018, the beach volleyball star has alongside his long-term partner Cherif Younousse, put Qatar on the global map with their terrific performances notably the bronze medal feat in the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020. Their impressive resumé also features a fourth-place finish in the Olympic Games Paris 2024, two Asian Games titles, several Beach Pro Tour medals and four consecutive World Championship appearances as a pair.
Although their fourth try at medaling at a World Championship ended in the the Round of 16 exit in Adelaide, Australia last year, it was a memorable experience for Ahmed specifically. The 30-year-old Ahmed, who usually enjoys huge family support whenever he is on court, had a new fan in Adelaide–his two-month old daughter Muneera.
“Family support has been essential. Having that emotional stability and encouragement allow me to fully commit to my career while staying grounded. It gives me strength, clarity, and balance, especially during demanding periods on Tour,” revealed Ahmed.
“It was incredibly special and emotional. Having my baby there (in Adelaide) gave me a sense of peace and motivation at the same time. It made the experience more meaningful and reminded me why I do what I do, even in the most competitive environments,” he added.
Qatar’s Cherif Younousse (left) and Ahmed Tijan celebrate during the 2025 FIVB Beach Volleyball World Championship held in Adelaide, Australia.
Despite having held his new status as a father for over four months now, Ahmed said that his perspective about life generally has changed for the better due to fatherhood.
“Becoming a father has given me a deeper sense of responsibility and purpose. Beyond being an athlete, I now see myself as a role model in a much more meaningful way. It has grounded me as a person and reminded me that who I am off the court is just as important as what I achieve on it,” opened up Ahmed.
“The biggest shift has been a sense of calm and perspective. My daughter brings me so much joy and peace, and that emotional balance has helped me approach life and sport with more clarity and gratitude,” he pointed out.
Pre-fatherhood, Ahmed’s life revolved around training and grinding results tour after tour just like other professional athletes. However, he appreciates the work-life balance that has come with fatherhood.
“There was a moment when I realized that volleyball is still a huge part of my life, but it no longer defines my entire identity. That shift helped me appreciate the game more purely — as something I love and feel grateful for, rather than something that carries all the weight of who I am,” reflected Ahmed.
“Success now means more than results and rankings. It’s about growth, consistency, and being present — both as an athlete and as a father. On the court, success is giving my best effort; off the court, it’s being a good role model and provider for my family,” explained Ahmed.
Like every other parent, Ahmed is keen on setting a good example for his first-born child Muneera while also remaining competitive on the court.
“My motivation now comes from a deeper place. I want to set an example through discipline, resilience, and consistency. Training and competing are no longer just about personal goals, but about building a legacy my daughter can one day be proud of,” begun Ahmed.
“I hope to pass on values like hard work, humility, respect, and perseverance. Sport has taught me the importance of patience and resilience, and I want my child to understand that success is built through effort, integrity, and belief in oneself,” he underlined matter-of-factly.
“I hope they’ll see someone who competes with passion, respect, and discipline — but also with humility. As a father, I hope they’ll see commitment, love, and balance, and understand that hard work and integrity matter in everything you do,” asserted Ahmed.
Qatar’s Ahmed Tijan (left) in action against France during the 2025 FIVB Beach Volleyball World Championship held in Adelaide, Australia.
With the 2026 season fast approaching, Ahmed notes that fatherhood has helped him to embrace challenges and quickly bounce back from any setback.
“I’ve developed a healthier relationship with pressure and setbacks. I still compete with the same intensity, but I don’t carry losses as heavily as before. Fatherhood has helped me understand that challenges are part of the journey, both in sport and in life,” said the 30-year-old back court specialist.
This year will mark Ahmed’s first full season as a father on the Beach Pro Tour and he is overly excited about it. He is optimistic that his new routine will not only yield medals on the court but also joyful memories off the court.
“My routine has become more intentional. I prioritize recovery and rest more carefully, and mentally I’m more focused and present. Even while traveling, I try to stay connected and balanced. Fatherhood has helped me become more disciplined with my time and energy,” said Ahmed.
“I’m excited about continuing to grow — both personally and professionally. I feel refreshed, mentally stronger, and more focused than ever. I’m looking forward to competing with a clear mindset, embracing challenges, and enjoying the journey this season brings.”
