Razan Al Khalifeh 

www.joc.jo meets the former gymnast who is making a name for herself in Badminton

Name :	Razan Khalid Mohammad Al Khalifeh
Age :	22
Sport :	Badminton
Career :	Student
Place of Residence:	Mafraq

1. How did you get into your sport?

I used to be a gymnastic but my school teacher asked me to try badminton and introduced me to Mufeed Hawa who has been my coach since. I joined the Prince Mohammad Club and have achieved great local results. I first represented the National Team in 2003.

2. What have been your main achievements?

It was when I participated in Arab Championship Syria 2007. It was a doubles match and we reached the final, beating the host pair and winning gold.

3. How do you think your sport can be improved?

Badminton needs to be promoted because most of people are not aware of it and don’t know the opportunities. More overseas camps will help develop the national players as well. We should also focus on juniors and give them every chance to improve their abilities.

4. How do you see your future in your sport?

I want to become a Coach. At the moment I am studying at the university but in the near future I would like to be a Badminton Coach so I can be always be close to my sport.

5. How do you spend your time away from sport?

In the university and with my friends, I don’t have much time to go out or do anything at the moment.

6. What are your main hobbies / interests?

Gymnastics. I still love the sport. It’s like an art.

7. What ‘saying’ do you believe in...

“Arrogance is the grave of champions”

8. Who do you consider as your idol?

My Mother. She has encouraged me and was always the best advisor.

9. Who are your local and international athletes?

The retired Jordan Gymnastic Yasmeen Khir. I admired what she achieved. On the international level I like the Spanish Tennis player Rafael Nadal because I like the way he defends and attacks.

10. Which player would you like to play against?

I would like the play against the Indonesian star Tawfeeq Hedayat. People call him ‘The Magician’ because of his aerobic abilities and strength.

11. If you could roll back time, would you choose badminton or another sport?

I was to choose Gymnastics. I love this sport. I must confess that I’m still missing it.

12. What kind of Music do you like and what is your favourite film?

I like Opera, especially when I listen to Pavarotti, it inspires me. I have watched ‘300 Spartans’ many times because I love the story of seeking Glory and how he challenged thousands just to keep his land.

13. If you had one wish what would it be?

I wish I could compete in the Olympic Games one day.

14. What message or advice would you like to give youngsters coming into sport?

Love your sport in order to succeed. Follow the coach’s instructions and focus on your dreams.

15. What is your Favorite food?

I like Uzi.

16. If you had five flowers, who would you give them to?

One for my parents, and a second for my Coach, Yousef Au Munther. The third one for all of my friends, especially Muhanad, and the Fourth is to the Jordan Olympic Committee. The fifth would be for King Abdullah II on behalf of the Jordanian people.
 

 

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