Ashwaq Alsaieri has etched her name in athletic history by becoming the first Saudi Arabian and GCC woman to complete all seven Abbott World Marathon Majors. This extraordinary accomplishment required conquering the world’s most prestigious long-distance races across Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, Sydney, and New York.
Her journey represents more than personal triumph—it symbolizes a transformative shift for women’s sports in Saudi Arabia and the broader Arab region. Alsaieri’s path to marathon excellence began with family skepticism about her unconventional passion. “They struggled to understand why anyone would choose to run without being chased,” she recalled in an exclusive interview with Khaleej Times.
That initial reluctance transformed into unwavering support as her family became her most dedicated cheering squad across global competitions. “My family’s support has been my constant fuel,” Alsaieri emphasized. “Their belief in me has never wavered, and it’s a huge part of what keeps me moving.”
The historic moment arrived when Alsaieri crossed the finish line at the New York City Marathon in November, completing her seventh and final major. Despite physical exhaustion, she recognized the profound significance of her achievement. “Completing all seven World Marathon Majors felt bigger than a medal,” she reflected. “Becoming the first Saudi and GCC woman to achieve it wasn’t about being ‘the first’ for the sake of it, but about proving what’s possible for women from our region.”
Alsaieri’s accomplishment places her among a growing cohort of Saudi female athletes breaking barriers internationally, including racing driver Reema Juffali, tennis player Yara Alhogbani, and the women’s national football team. “It feels like I’m witnessing—and contributing to—one of the most beautiful transformations in Saudi history,” she stated.
Her success has attracted professional recognition, culminating in an endorsement contract with global athletic brand New Balance. This partnership represents both personal achievement and regional progress. “It feels like I’m living history, in running shoes,” Alsaieri remarked. “It’s powerful to work with people who believe that women in our region deserve visibility and support to perform at their best.”
Looking forward, Alsaieri aims to continue pushing boundaries while inspiring others. While Olympic participation remains a distant dream, her immediate focus involves “stepping into roles where I can mentor and uplift other runners in the region.” She views her athletic journey as part of a collective movement: “Through sport, we’re rewriting the narrative and proving that Arab women not only belong, but lead.”