JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia’s top female freediver spoke to Arab News about the “overwhelming sense of accomplishment” she felt upon breaking the national record in Greece on Oct 6.
Nada Mohammed Alrasheed made waves in the freediving world by winning her first World Freediving Depth Championship in Kalamata, Greece, this month, securing several national records for Saudi Arabia.
She set a Saudi national record in CWT (constant weight with monofins) with a 61-meter dive, broke another in FIM (free immersion) with a 53-meter dive, and completed CWTB (constant weight bi-fins) with a 65-meter dive.
Alrasheed, commenting on her achievement said: “It was a mix of emotions, relief, joy and an overwhelming sense of accomplishment. In those moments after surfacing, the weight of all the training, discipline and effort becomes real. There’s a brief silence before the celebrations begin, and in that quiet, I really felt the magnitude of the achievement.”
Speaking to Arab News about her journey, she said: “I’ve always loved the sea, since I was a child. I started scuba diving at the age of 9 or 10, but snorkeling and being free, just holding my breath, always felt more natural to me.
“It wasn’t until 2018 that I discovered freediving as a formal sport. Once I knew that, I took a course, and from there, I got addicted to the feeling of challenge. My body kept surprising me with what it was capable of. That sense of freedom and accomplishment fueled my passion, and I knew I wanted to pursue it seriously.”
Freediving combines mental and physical challenge. Alrasheed said: “Before each dive, I focus a lot on my breathing. It’s all about calming my mind and slowing my heart rate. Meditation plays a crucial role in my routine, along with visualizing each moment underwater. This mental preparation helps me stay calm and focused, even when attempting new depths.”
Representing Saudi Arabia in a physically demanding sport is a source of great pride for Alrasheed. While she acknowledges the achievements of her fellow athletes, she feels honored to contribute to the growing presence of freediving in the Kingdom.
She said it is a significant privilege to represent Saudi Arabia in this sport and pointed out that she is not the first freediver to break a national record. With gratitude, she recognized the incredible athletes who have set high standards and expressed her appreciation for being part of the team.
Among the various freediving disciplines, Alrasheed has a special affinity for CWT, a category that involves the use of monofins. “What excites me the most about CWT is the flow of the movement. It’s all about being efficient and smooth, letting the fins carry you gracefully through the water. There’s a beautiful rhythm to it.”
In contrast, FIM focuses more on upper body strength, while CWTB requires precision and leg power, each discipline presenting unique challenges.
Alrasheed’s journey has not been without its difficulties. The mental pressures leading up to competitions present some of the biggest challenges she has faced.
“It’s easy to let nerves take over when you’re attempting personal or national records. Another challenge was realizing that progress isn’t linear, which was hard for me to accept at the beginning of my journey.
“I wanted to see improvement with every dive, but I quickly learned that setbacks are part of the process.”
Over time, she has built a strong mental foundation, learning to trust her training and remain resilient even when progress seems slow.
Freediving, although often solitary, requires a strong support system, and Alrasheed is grateful for the role of the Saudi Water Sports and Diving Federation.
“Freediving can seem like a solitary sport but having a solid team behind you, whether it’s coaches, safety divers, or family and friends, makes all the difference. Their role is crucial for both safety and success, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.”
As a Saudi woman excelling in a unique and unconventional sport, she hopes to inspire future generations to explore new frontiers.
“My message is simple: don’t be afraid to dream big. The path might seem difficult, and there will be challenges, but persistence and passion can take you far.”
She especially encourages young girls to pursue their dreams, reminding them that they can excel in any field they choose, even in a sport as unexpected as freediving. “Believe in your ability and never let doubt hold you back.”
Looking forward, Alrasheed is determined to continue pushing her limits, both personally and for the future of freediving in Saudi Arabia.
“Personally, I want to keep pushing my limits and see how far I can go in freediving. For Saudi Arabia, I hope to see the sport grow even more, and I’m hopeful that freediving will become part of the Saudi Games soon.
“I want to help build a strong freediving community in the Kingdom, where athletes can thrive and compete at the highest levels.”
