Ahmed Khadr Al-Tarabulsi
Ahmed Khadr Al-Tarabulsi was born in Beirut, Lebanon, in 1947. He later relocated to Kuwait, where he acquired Kuwaiti citizenship in 1974. Following this, he joined the Kuwaiti army, eventually attaining the rank of Colonel. Al-Tarabulsi was not only a skilled reciter of the Holy Quran but also served as the goalkeeper for the Kuwaiti national football team and held a military position within the army. Known for his loyalty and dedication to the Kuwaiti homeland, Al-Tarabulsi embodied numerous commendable traits such as humility and a strong commitment to religious values. It is noteworthy that he is the brother of the internationally renowned Lebanese weightlifter, Mohamed Al-Tarabulsi.
Sports Career
Al-Tarabulsi’s athletic journey began with the Lebanese Al-Najma Club, after which he transitioned to Al-Qadsia Club. He later moved to Al-Kuwait Club, where he continued to play until his retirement. Throughout his tenure, Al-Tarabulsi was regarded as the best goalkeeper at the Kuwaiti club, contributing significantly to numerous championships. During the 1974 Gulf Cup, he impressively did not concede a single goal. He also earned recognition as the best goalkeeper during the Amir Cup finals and participated in Kuwait’s victories in the Gulf Cup in 1972 and 1976. Throughout his sporting career, he was honored with numerous titles, including “The Giant Keeper,” “The Trustworthy Keeper,” and “Sheikh of Goalkeepers.”
Retirement from Sports
In 1983, Al-Tarabulsi hung up his boots but remained active in coaching until 1995. Despite the accolades and success he achieved, he chose to retire from sports as he aged, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that inspires youth to strive for success and perseverance. His era remains a golden chapter in the history of Kuwaiti football.
Al-Tarabulsi as a Quran Reciter
Al-Tarabulsi discovered his vocal talent at the tender age of six and later enrolled in the Quranic Institute associated with the Kuwaiti Ministry of Awqaf in 1971. There, he learned the proper methods of recitation and memorization. He dedicated himself to building a religious library filled with many interpretation books and audio recordings of famous reciters. Al-Tarabulsi participated in numerous Quranic competitions, notably the international competition held in Bangladesh in 1995, where he consistently secured top positions. It is essential to mention that he was the first Kuwaiti to record the recited Quran in his name in 1992, which was broadcast on Kuwaiti radio and the third sports channel. He left a significant legacy in Quran recitation with his beautiful voice, ensuring he remains in the hearts and memories of all who listened to him.