Seef El-Dein Zaqzooq

From humble beginnings to reaching the pinnacle of his sport, Jordan’s Muay Thai World Champion has proved to be the golden boy of his sport.

Seef El-Dein Khalid Zaqzooq was just eight when he was introduced to the sport also known as Thai Boxing and has become a household name after winning the World Title in 2009.

Name : Seef El-Dein Khalid Zaqzooq
Age : 19
Sport : Muay Thai
Career : Student in University of Jordan
Place of Residence: Al-Zarqa – Yajooz

1. How did you get into your sport?

In the beginning I admired all Martial Arts. I started playing Kuku Chin at the age of eight but moved to Thai Boxing at the same age because my Father was a coach in the sport. Muay Thai wasn’t popular in Jordan at that time but I got serious about the sport when Jordan created a national team to compete internationally. I joined the national team in 2006 and became world champion just three years later.

2. What have been your main achievements?

• Gold medal in World Championship in Thailand (2009)

• Bronze Medal in Asian Indoor Games Vietnam (2009)

• Silver Gold in World Championship in Thailand (2008)

• Gold medal in Arab Championship in Lebanon (2010)

• The best player in Arab championship (2010)

3. What is the biggest highlight / moment of your career ?

It was when I became the world champion out of 82 participating countries.

4. What are your ambitions / goals now?

I really hope Thai Boxing becomes a part of the Olympic Games soon so I can get the first Gold.

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

Actually we need a lot more overseas camps to benefit from the experience and qualifications of international athletes and coaches. The sport could do with more support locally as well to improve our chances of getting more medals and championships.

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

My time is just for my sport.

7. What are your main hobbies / interests?

Martial Arts in General

8. If you were given one million dinars how would you spend it?

First, I would obtain PhD in physical Education and also open a sport centres to encourage youth to practice their favorite sport.

9. Who do you consider as your idol(s)?

My Father.

10. Who are your favorite overseas and local athletes?

Locally My Father and overseas the Swiss player Andy.

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

I advise them to keep on practicing and to target international titles. They must follow the Coach’s directions.

12. What is your Favorite food?

Kabseh.

13. Last words for your fans?

First, I would like to thank HRH Prince Hassan Feisal Bin Al-Hussein for his great support as well as to the JOC President HRH Prince Feisal Al Hussein and Secretary General Lana Al-Jaghbeer. I promise my fans that Jordan will get their First Olympic medal soon.

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