A Historic First: Abdallah Yassine Becomes First Lebanese Para-Swimmer to Qualify for the Asian Games
At just 23 years old, Abdallah Yassine just made Lebanese sports history.
The athlete from Nabatieh recently qualified for the 2026 Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan, becoming the first para-swimmer from Lebanon to earn a spot at the competition.
What’s even more impressive is that Abdallah only started para-swimming in January 2026! Just a few months later, he represented Lebanon at the World Para Swimming Series in Shizuoka, Japan, where he secured his qualification for the Asian Games.
But swimming isn’t his only sport. Abdallah is also a para-basketball player, balancing two athletic disciplines while pursuing his goals on the international stage.
His journey has not been an easy one. Like many people in South Lebanon, Abdallah’s life was heavily impacted by the war. Against all odds, he’s setting his sights for the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.
From Nabatieh to the world, Abdallah’s achievement marks an important milestone for Lebanese para-sports and puts a well-deserved spotlight on the talent coming out of Lebanon, especially its beloved south.
Congratulations, Abdallah Yassine! We’re cheering you on all the way to Nagoya and beyond. Make sure to follow him on Instagram to keep up with his journey.
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