I met Younus for the first time in 1995, at the Qatar Open. As a qualifier and the only Arab in the draw he was a big hit amongs the predominantly Arab spectators. And then he came close to toppling the ultimate winner Boris Becker!
And all this without, a coach and a sponsor. The only thing the young Moroccan had was a flu virus and hell of a lot of guts. And yes a lot of charm he came to the press box where he was interviewed in the nosebleed section (where the press box is located) and apologised as he lay on on teh floor answering questions. Teh Arab section of course had a hero and he wasnt playing soccer!
No sponsors were available but he managed to raise enough money from friends and well wishers to fly on to Australia to play in the qualifiers. And now there is a chance that he may win the Open. For his sake and the fact that the world loves a fighter i wish he wins.
With a ready smile and halting English he went through detailing his dream and wondering what he may have achieved had he a coach...
I dont know if he has one but he may now be closer than ever to relising that dream.
