Sami Al-Maghamsi

Behind the Stadium Lights: Lost Privacy and Life’s Mysterious Equation

July 19, 2026 - 00:00 | Last updated July 19, 2026 - 00:00

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Football is an enjoyable game, but it should not exceed the boundaries of the pitch. Players and coaches have their own special stories and privacy that should remain away from the media spotlight; invading this privacy directly or indirectly affects their social lives. We should also not exaggerate or inflate celebrations to the point where these displays become more important than the sporting achievement itself.

However, what we witnessed in terms of celebrations and media coverage after the conclusion of some teams' participation in the World Cup opened closed doors that were supposed to remain shut; homes hold secrets. Suddenly, the social lives of some coaches and players became exposed to everyone: How many times have they married and divorced? Why haven't they visited their mothers? Why did they prefer their wives over their mothers?

The lives of these stars have turned into stories and films that trend on social media platforms in a frantic, unacceptable chase for fame and views, even if the price is the violation of privacy.

Those interviews and stories completely changed the mental image of some stars, and their status both on and off the pitch has been shaken. It would have been more appropriate for their statements and appearances to be limited to technical aspects and matches.

In the end, what is the benefit of these television interviews that dig into personal lives? Every person goes through difficult experiences, and life is not always rosy. Those who seek stardom surely realize that their path will not be paved with roses. But for programs to invade their lives to the extent that they portray them in a manner unworthy of their popularity, and for some interviews to turn into 'comedic dances' that tarnish the name of a great star, is something that defies logic.

These stars are supposed to be role models for a generation of youth—not only in their performance but also in their appearance and demeanor—while their personal lives should naturally remain within the family circle only.

The World Cup showed us negative aspects and stories that went beyond their supposed domestic confines. In its quest for excitement, the media risks burning these stars out, and I hope this wave stops quickly so that we do not lose their sporting and human value.

“The Amazing Equation of Life”

Away from the noise of stadiums and media, I called a friend of mine a few days ago who has been worn out by illness. I offered him comfort, and he replied with a tone of contentment: “I only need your prayers, my friend.”

This man is very successful in his life and has achieved most of his professional and financial goals. After I hung up the phone, I began to reflect on the amazing equation that governs our lives: “money, illness, and time.”

You may spend a lifetime needing a lot of time to gather money, but this money, no matter how great, cannot buy a single moment of time or health if they are lost. Time may suddenly steal you away, and you might find yourself at the peak of glory and fame, helpless in the face of the trial of illness.

So, glory be to You, my Lord... how great You are, and how small man is before Your divine plan!