Olympics 2016: Women's beach volleyball Germany vs Egypt showcases cultural mix in Rio
Women's beach volleyball proves one of the more popular sports at the Olympic Games, with the match between Germany and Egypt in particular drawing a lot of attention and interest.
More than most sports at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, the showdown on the sands showcased the different cultures among the many varied nations who come together in competition.
Egypt's Nada Meawad. Source: AP
Egypt's Doaa Elghobashy jumps against Germany's Kira Walkenhorst. Source: AP
On one side of the net were Germany's duo, in two-piece sports bikinis. On the other side the Egyptian athletes, donning long sleeves, long leggings and a hijab.
Egyptian athletes Nada Meawad and Doaa Elghobashy stood out against Germany’s Kira Walkenhorst and Laura Ludwig who took to the court in sport's traditional attire.
Laura Ludwig of Germany. Source: AP
Nada Meawad (centre) and Doaa Elgobashy (right) of Egypt hug as Laura Ludwig of Germany celebrates. Source: AP
After the 21-12, 21-15 loss to Germany, Egypt's Elghobashy spoke about her clothing that looks so different to many of her peers.
"I have worn the hijab for 10 years," Elghobashy said.
Doaa Elghobashy is in the zone. Source: AP
Doaa Elgobashy of Egypt scoops the ball. Source: AP
"It doesn't keep me away from the things I love to do, and beach volleyball is one of them."
Like so many of her fellow athletes, for Egypt's Elghobashy it's all about the carnival and competing on behalf of her nation.
Switzerland's Nadine Zumkehr in traditional attire. Source: AP
witzerland's Joana Heidrich wins a point. Source: AP
Switzerland's Joana Heidrich is in the zone. Source: AP
"I'm proud to be seen raising the Egyptian flag in a carnival with so many nations," Elghobashy said.
Rules around beach volleyball uniforms were relaxed in the lead up to the London 2012, allowing for long sleeves and leggings.
witzerland's Joana Heidrich. Source: AP
Switzerland's Joana Heidrich (left) celebrates with Nadine Zumkehr (right) after winning their women's beach volleyball match against Germany. Source: AP
Rio 2016 was the first time Egypt has qualified in either the men's or women's tournaments at the games.
