Wahida Abdessalem, a 19-year-old football player from AS Gafsa in Tunisia, passed away last Sunday during the warm-up before a match against Union Sportive Tunisienne. Despite the efforts of emergency services, she did not survive, leading to a somber atmosphere in Tunisian football.
Sepp Blatter, the President of FIFA, expressed his condolences in a letter addressed to Wadii El Jery, the president of the Tunisian Football Federation. Blatter conveyed his sympathy to the family, the Tunisian Football Federation, and the AS Gafsa club. In his message, Blatter stated, “This tragedy affects the entire football family. Also, allow me, on behalf of FIFA and on my own behalf, to send you my most sincere condolences.” He expressed gratitude for conveying his sympathy and support to Wahida Abdessalem’s family and loved ones during these moments of great grief and painful separation.
