Essam El-Hadary set a definitive world record at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, stepping onto the pitch at age 45 years and 161 days. This appearance made him the oldest player in the history of the tournament, surpassing the previous record set by Colombian goalkeeper Faryd Mondragón.
Early Development and Domestic Success
Born in 1973 in Kafr El Battikh, El-Hadary began his career without his parents' knowledge, concealing his participation in local football. He joined the second-division team Damietta at age 17, making his first-team debut in 1993. His performance led to a move to Al Ahly, where he spent 12 years. During his tenure at the Cairo club, he secured eight Egyptian Premier League titles, four Egypt Cups, four Egyptian Super Cups, and four CAF Champions League titles.
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El-Hadary made 159 international appearances between 1996 and 2018. His career included stints with FC Sion, where he faced significant contractual disputes with Al Ahly that involved FIFA and the Court of Arbitration for Sport. Later, he played for clubs including Ismaily, Zamalek, Al-Merreikh, and Al-Taawoun. In 2017, he became the first foreign goalkeeper to play in the Saudi Pro League, where he also became the league's oldest goalscorer.
Tournament Achievements
Known as the High Dam, El-Hadary won the Africa Cup of Nations four times. He earned recognition as the tournament's best goalkeeper in 2006, 2008, and 2010. During the 2017 tournament, he saved two penalties against Burkina Faso to reach the final. Following his professional retirement in 2020, he transitioned into coaching, serving as the goalkeeping coach for the Egypt national team and the Egypt U23 staff.
Fast facts
- Born: 15 January 1973, Kafr El Battikh
- International Appearances: 159
- Al Ahly Tenure: 1996–2008
- World Cup Debut: 2018, age 45
- Africa Cup of Nations Wins: 4
- Retirement: 18 November 2020
- First Professional Club: Damietta
- Coaching Staff: Egypt National Team and U23
Questions readers ask
What is the origin of the nickname High Dam?
The nickname references his stature and defensive impact as a goalkeeper during his long career.
Did El-Hadary ever score a goal in professional play?
Yes, on 10 December 2017, he scored a stoppage-time penalty for Al-Taawoun against Al-Ettifaq.
