Beach volleyball match between Egypt and Germany showcases cultural contrast
Henri Paget
A beach volleyball match between Egypt and Germany has highlighted the cultural divide between the two nations, with one side donning hijabs and long sleeves and the other taking the court in bikinis. (All photos by AFP)
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On one side of the clash on Day 2 of the Rio Olympics, were Nada Meawad and Doaa Elghobashy from Egypt.
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On the other side, Germany’s Kira Walkenhorst and Laura Ludwig.
"I have worn the hijab for 10 years," Elghobashy said after the 21-12, 21-15 loss to Germany.
"It doesn't keep me away from the things I love to do, and beach volleyball is one of them."
The rules around uniforms were loosened ahead of the London 2012 Olympics to allow full sleeves and leggings.
It is the first time Egypt has qualified for either the men's or women's beach volleyball tournament at the Olympics.
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"I'm proud to be seen raising the Egyptian flag in a carnival with so many nations," Elghobashy said.
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