Farah Jefry is showing no signs of slowing down, on or off the pitch. From blazing a trail in Saudi female football, to navigating the challenges of an athlete, the Saudi star is no stranger to the spotlight. And now, bouncing back from an injury setback, Farah Jefry is embracing the pressure.
As part of the adidas #YouGotThis campaign, Farah is getting granular on her path to success, breaking down the tips and tricks she’s picked up in her career to navigate adversity, expectations and challenges.
Cosmo Me sat down with the sportswoman herself to delve into the high-stakes of being a young female athlete. She talks mindset, resilience and how to stay grounded with the pressure of performance.
Scroll below to read our conversation with Farah Jefry about setbacks, bounce-backs and everything in between…
Cosmo ME: Being a young female athlete comes with its own set of challenges. What has been the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far in your career?
Farah Jefry: The biggest lesson I’ve learned so far in my career is the power of resilience. Despite facing obstacles and setbacks, I’ve discovered that perseverance and determination are essential qualities that can help me overcome any adversity. Whether it’s injuries or self-doubt, I’ve learned to bounce back stronger and more determined than ever.
Cosmo ME: Living in the spotlight as an athlete – how do you cope with the expectations placed on you, both from within your community and from the broader public?
Farah Jefry: I prioritize my mental well-being, lean on my support network, and stay true to myself. Setting realistic goals helps me navigate the pressure with resilience and grace.
Cosmo ME: As a woman, do you feel as if there is greater pressure to earn a place for yourself in the football industry?
Farah Jefry: Recently, there has been a rise in the popularity of women’s football in Saudi Arabia, attracting an expanding fan following and igniting inspiration among a fresh wave of aspiring female football players.
For example, the official FIFA ranking of the Saudi women’s national team indicates a hopeful chapter for football in the Kingdom, motivating a greater number of young girls to chase their ambitions in the sport.
Together with adidas, I am driven to shift the narrative and inspire the younger generation of female to participate in football and deal with pressure.
Cosmo ME: What are your top tips for managing the pressure of performance while on the field?
Farah Jefry: Here are my top tips for managing performance and pressure on the field:
- Stay focused on the present moment.
- Control what you can control, such as your effort and attitude.
- Maintain a positive mindset and believe in your abilities.
- Use visualization techniques to envision success.
Cosmo ME: Beyond football, what other aspects of your life do you turn to to stay grounded?
Farah Jefry: My personal relationships, including those with my family and friends, play a vital role in keeping me grounded. They provide stability, support, and a sense of belonging. My family offers unconditional love, guidance, and a safe space where I can be myself. My friends bring laughter, companionship, and understanding. Together, these connections remind me of the importance of human connection and provide the support I need to navigate life’s challenges.
Cosmo ME: Can you tell us a bit about the injury you sustained in 2023? How do you navigate the pressure of being sidelined from your physical duties?
Farah Jefry: It was a tough moment that challenged my resilience and determination. Yet, with unwavering support from my family, teammates, and coaches, I found the inner strength needed to stage a comeback. Rather than allowing the injury to dishearten me I transformed it into a source of motivation.
Cosmo ME: What steps did you take to bounce back from the injury?
Farah Jefry: After my ACL surgery in Dubai, I was determined to bounce back. I stayed in Dubai for nearly four months, diligently attending physiotherapy sessions every day for hours. It was challenging, but I knew it was crucial for my recovery.
I made sure to balance my time between Dubai and Jeddah, where I could be with my family and occasionally meet my teammates. While it was a tough journey, but through physiotherapy and the support of my loved ones, I feel much stronger.
Cosmo ME: adidas has been a strong advocate for women in sports. How has partnering with adidas empowered you to overcome certain pressures and challenges, and pursue your football aspirations with confidence?
Farah Jefry: Participating in the new brand campaign, “You Got This,” and witnessing the inclusion of both men and women in the launch film for the 2023 Saudi national team’s home and away jerseys, adidas has reminded me that a young girl’s football dreams are valid and achievable.
adidas is also committed to grow the desire of football across Saudi Arabia with a view of developing women’s football and creating an equal playing field for all.
Their ambition towards diversity and inclusivity has encouraged me to embrace my identity as a female athlete and strive for excellence without limitations.
Cosmo ME: Reflecting on your athletic career, what has been your biggest milestone to date?
Farah Jefry: Reflecting on my athletic career, one of the biggest milestones to date has been representing my beloved country, Saudi Arabia, and achieving the remarkable feat of winning back-to-back 3 league titles with my team. It was an incredible journey filled with hard work, dedication, and the unwavering support of my teammates, coaches, family, and friends. The experience of representing Saudi Arabia on such a prestigious stage holds a special place in my heart. It symbolizes the collective effort, resilience, and determination of our national tram, and it will forever be remembered as a remarkable milestone in my athletic journey.
Cosmo ME: Looking ahead, what aspirations do you hold for your future in sports?
Farah Jefry: In my career, I aspire to represent my country in the FIFA Women’s World Cup and become the first professional Saudi women’s player to compete abroad. However, I’m also driven to work with adidas to shift the narrative and inspire the younger generation of females to participate in football. Inspiring confidence and resilience in aspiring athletes, I see more opportunities to promote inclusion and advancement in women’s sports.
Cosmo ME: What advice would you give to other young female athletes who are facing societal pressures of being a woman in sports?
Farah Jefry: My advice would be to embrace pressure. Instead of fearing it, see it as a chance to demonstrate your abilities. Concentrate on the process rather than the result, divide the task into smaller, achievable steps, and remain fully engaged in the present moment.
Find out more about the adidas #YouGotThis campaign at @adidasarabia / adidas.sa