In the world of sports, where legends are born, records are shattered, and names etch themselves into history, some stories rise above the rest. Among them is that of Syrian athlete Alisar Youssef, a standout figure who has proudly carried her nation’s name to the forefront of both Arab and international athletic forums. Her journey is one marked by excellence, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of distinction.
In an exclusive interview with the seventh issue of the printed edition of +963, Alisar opened up about her beginnings, her accomplishments, the challenges she has overcome, and her clear-eyed vision for the future, fueled by ambition and a dream that never backs down.
How did your journey in sports begin? What are the key milestones in your career so far?
“I started in sports at a very young age. I was just eleven when I entered my first official track event,” Alisar recalls. “From that moment, I knew that sports would always be a part of who I am.”
Recognising her talent early on, her coach guided her into the world of track and field, launching a journey defined by relentless training, discipline, and determination.
In a few short years, Alisar proved her mettle by earning silver and bronze medals at the Arab Championships in the 100-meter and 400-meter hurdles, where the level of competition was fierce.
Competing in the Youth+ category, she reached a major milestone by winning gold in the 100-meter hurdles at the West Asian Championships, a victory that marked a turning point in her athletic career. As she moved into the senior category, she continued to shine, securing a silver medal at the West Asian Championships and a bronze at the regional club championship.
However, the achievement she holds dearest is representing Syria at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
“Standing there among the world’s top athletes was the ultimate reward for every drop of sweat, every moment of struggle,” she says. “It was the realisation of a dream I have chased for years.”
What was your experience like in international tournaments, especially the Olympics?
“It was truly exceptional,” Alisar says. “I felt like I had entered an entirely new realm of competition.”
She describes the experience as a turning point, one filled with challenges, from the high level of the athletes to the psychological pressures, heightened expectations, and the intensity of the competitive atmosphere. Yet, amid all of that, she found a kind of joy that words can’t fully capture.
“I learned so much from these events, not just on the physical or technical levels, but mentally and psychologically as well,” she explains. “This journey refined me, helping me grow in maturity and resilience.”
Alisar is quick to emphasise that she never walked this path alone.
“My success was built on the unwavering support of my family, my coach, and everyone who believed in me,” she says. “Thanks to them, my dreams became more than just ambitions; they became concrete steps I live out every day.”
What gives Alisar Youssef the edge in tough competitions?
“Success does not come by chance; it is the product of a comprehensive system rooted in hard work and smart strategy,” Alisar affirms.
For her, three core pillars form the foundation of every race.
“First, intense physical preparation. That includes specific training for each phase of the race, from the initial sprint to the final hurdle,” she explains.
“Second, psychological and emotional support, which I see as essential for withstanding pressure and overcoming setbacks.”
“And third, strategic planning with my technical team, we analyse competitors, study race patterns, and craft a precise plan for every heat.”
She adds, “And of course, there’s my faith, and the support of the Syrian people, which has always been a powerful source of motivation. It is a moral boost that pushes me forward, no matter the obstacles.”
What was the atmosphere like at the West Asian Club Championship? Did you achieve the results you hoped for?
“That tournament was one of the most challenging and exciting I have ever competed in,” Alisar recalls. “The level of the participating athletes was incredibly high, which pushed me to give everything I had.”
She describes how she relied on precise hurdle techniques, carefully managed her energy throughout each race, and maintained unwavering focus from the starting gun to the finish line.
“The result was very satisfying, not just in terms of placement, but because I set a new personal record,” she says. “For me, that is a strong indicator of how far I’ve come and how prepared I am for what lies ahead.”
How do you assess the support system you receive today as a Syrian athlete?
“I am deeply grateful for the support I have received on multiple levels,” she says.
Technically, Alisar trains under the supervision of the Army Club, which she describes as an ideal environment for growth and performance. She works closely with her coach, Asaad Hamada, who designs her training programs based on rigorous scientific principles.
“I also benefit from specialised healthcare and sports nutrition support, which helps me maintain peak fitness throughout the season,” she adds.
But above all, it is the moral support that means the most to her.
“The encouragement I receive from the Syrian public, whether through their messages, engagement on social media, or presence at competitions, gives me an incredible boost,” she says. “Thanks to all of this, I have already achieved about 85% of my goals for this season. And the road ahead still holds more.”
