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Shock in Jeddah: FIBA has deprived Lebanon of Wael Arakji, its star point guard and 2022 MVP, just hours before the decisive tip-off. With its playmaker sidelined due to a medical refusal, Lebanon loses a major asset in its continental quest.

It’s now official: Wael Arakji, MVP of the last Asian Cup, will not take part in the 2025 edition in Jeddah. The International Basketball Federation (FIBA) refused to issue him the medical certificate required to step on the court. After a thorough examination, no exceptions were made, despite the hopes held by the player and the Lebanese staff.

Arakji, the face of Lebanese basketball and a nightmare for Asian defenses, averaged 22.7 points per game in the previous edition. His absence is not just a technical void — it’s an emotional earthquake for an entire nation. This decision robs the national team of its chief orchestrator, the man who in 2022 carried Lebanon all the way to the final. A heavy blow for Miodrag Perisic, who must now rethink his game plan in an already tough Group A.

57 Days of Effort… for Nothing

A few hours before the official announcement, Arakji posted a poignant message on Instagram, reflecting his frustration and disbelief. Against a gray background, three Lebanese flags at the end — and between the lines, the anguish of a player who gave everything to return:

“For the past 57 days, I’ve been working day after day, relentlessly, to be able to join the national team. Strangely, I didn’t get my medical clearance. I wish my brothers the very best of success — bring the cup home.”

A short but powerful text, blending disappointment with loyalty to his teammates.

A Void That’s Hard to Fill

Arakji’s absence is more than a tactical issue — it strikes at the very soul of the team. A creative playmaker, deadly finisher, vocal leader… he embodied Lebanese confidence and ambition. Without him, responsibilities shift: Karim Zeinoun and Ali Mansour will have to take on more ball-handling duties, while Amir Saoud will shoulder an even greater scoring load.

Some Positive Injury News Elsewhere

Not all medical news is bleak: Sergio Darwiche and Amir Saoud, who were also being monitored for minor injuries, are on the road to recovery and could be ready for the next game against South Korea.

Same Goal: Aim High

While Arakji’s absence makes the task harder, it does not spell the end of Lebanon’s ambitions. The team will need to close ranks, rely on defensive discipline and capitalize on the individual talent that remains.

The dream of a continental title is still alive, but the road ahead looks challenging. In the meantime, Arakji’s message echoes as a rallying cry for an entire country: “Bring the cup home.”