Fifty-three caps for the Saudi Arabia national team define the international career of defender Omar Ibrahim Omar Othman Hawsawi. Spanning a professional timeline from his early development in youth setups to his final match in 2024, his career tracks the evolution of competitive football in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia across several major domestic and regional tournaments.
Formative Years and Early Career
Born on 27 September 1985, Hawsawi began his path in the youth academy of Al-Shabab. Following his departure from the club before making a first-team appearance, he moved to Al-Washm for a single season. He subsequently transitioned to Al-Shoulla, where he debuted against Al-Faisaly and played until his final match against Al-Jeel.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Tenure at Al-Nassr
In October 2010, Hawsawi signed a pre-contract agreement with Al-Nassr, officially joining the roster during the 2011 winter transfer window. His debut followed on 24 February 2011 in a victory against Al-Faisaly. During his tenure, he achieved significant domestic success, winning the Saudi League in the 2013-14 and 2014-15 seasons, alongside the 2013-14 Crown Prince Cup. He renewed his contract in 2014 and 2018, later captaining the side to a league title in the 2018-19 season.
Transition to Al-Ittihad
Hawsawi moved to Al-Ittihad in October 2020 on an initial one-year contract. He remained a consistent presence, renewing his terms in 2021 and 2023. During the 2022-23 season, he contributed to the club securing its first league title since 2009 and a Saudi Super Cup. In May 2024, he announced his intention to retire upon the conclusion of the season.
National Representation
Hawsawi represented the Saudi Arabia national team from 2013 to 2019. Throughout his international tenure, he participated in three major tournaments: the 2015 AFC Asian Cup, the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, and the 2019 AFC Asian Cup. He announced his retirement from international competition via social media on 3 October 2019.
Fast facts
- Born: 27 September 1985
- Citizenship: Saudi Arabia
- Position: Defender
- International caps: 53
- International career span: 2013-2019
- Retirement announcement: 3 May 2024
Questions readers ask
Which major tournaments did Omar Hawsawi participate in?
He played in the 2015 and 2019 AFC Asian Cup editions and the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
When did Hawsawi announce his retirement?
He announced his retirement from professional football on 3 May 2024, effective at the end of that season.
