Who is the disabled boy at the 2022 World Cup opening ceremony?

The young man appeared at the beginning of the opening ceremony, chatting with veteran Hollywood actor Morgan Freeman. Ghanim Al Muftah impressed with his confident demeanor and fluent English, "taking over the airwaves" at the opening ceremony of the 2022 World Cup last night. But the 20-year-old's life has not been a bed of roses since birth.

Ghanim Al Muftah (right) chats with veteran actor Morgan Freeman at the 2022 World Cup opening ceremony on the evening of November 20. Photo: EPA

In 2001, Ghanim Al Muftah's parents were very happy to learn that they were expecting twin boys. However, their joy quickly turned to fear when one of the boys was diagnosed with a physical defect and a very low chance of survival. Doctors advised aborting one of the fetuses, but Al Muftah's mother refused and the young man was born with congenital spondylolisthesis (CRS), growing up with his twin brother. Doctors also said that because of the rare disease, Ghanim Al Muftah could not live more than 15 years. However, thanks to his strong will, Muftah overcame his dangerous fate and became an inspiration to many people.

He is the youngest businessman in Qatar, founded the Gharissa ice cream company with 6 branches and more than 60 employees. Ghanim Al Muftah's personal page attracts more than a million followers. He also founded many charitable social organizations. Despite his physical disability, the 20-year-old plays many sports such as swimming, diving, soccer, skateboarding, and mountain climbing. At school, Ghanim Al Muftah often wears shoes on both hands and runs after the ball, playing football with normal able-bodied friends. He once climbed Jebel Shams - the highest mountain in the Gulf - and set a goal to conquer Mount Everest.

Ghanim Al Muftah and his twin brother at age 14.

As a child, he expressed his desire to study political science at university with the goal of becoming the Prime Minister of Qatar. Ghanim Al Muftah is currently a political science student and may become a diplomat in the future. The 20-year-old was chosen as one of the ambassadors for this year's FIFA World Cup. In a speech, Ghanim Al Muftah said: "In my capacity as a World Cup ambassador, I want to send a message of hope, peace, and unity."

Hosted by movie stars Morgan Freeman and Ghanim Al Muftah, Qatar put on a show steeped in the host nation’s traditions. Fans also relived memories of previous World Cups through theme songs and mascots.