Real Life Hero
Bondi Beach Hero Ahmed al-Ahmed Receives Standing Ovation at Sydney Ashes Test | WATCH
The nearly 48,000-strong crowd, the largest in 50 years for an SCG Test opener, rose as one in tribute, with the loudest cheers reserved for al-Ahmed.
Ahmed al-Ahmed, hailed as a hero for disarming one of the gunmen during the December 2025 Bondi Beach terror attack, was met with thunderous applause and a standing ovation from a sold-out crowd at the Sydney Cricket Ground yesterday, ahead of the fifth Ashes Test match between Australia and England.
The 43-year-old Syrian immigrant and fruit shop owner, who tackled an attacker and wrestled away his firearm during the Hanukkah celebration shooting that killed 15 people and injured dozens, walked onto the pitch with his arm in a sling from injuries sustained in the incident.
He stood with his hand on his heart during the national anthems as part of a pre-match ceremony honoring victims, first responders, and community heroes.
Players from both teams formed a guard of honour for al-Ahmed and about 13 other responders, including police, paramedics, and civilians like 14-year-old Chaya Dadon, who protected children during the massacre.
Videos and photos shared widely on social media captured the emotional moment, showing al-Ahmed gesturing to the crowd amid prolonged applause.
Commentators and fans described the ceremony as a powerful acknowledgment of bravery, with one post noting it highlighted "sport at its best" by focusing on something bigger than the game.