RIYADH: While most teenagers are still figuring out their career paths, Ibrahim Albassam has already made his mark — not in a boardroom or lecture hall, but in the high-stakes world of professional esports.
At just 16 years old, fresh out of high school, Albassam has realized a dream many gamers only aspire to: becoming a pro player for Twisted Minds, one of Saudi Arabia’s top esports organizations, competing in “EA Sports FC 25.”
⚽ Turning Passion into Profession
Globally, millions play EA Sports FC 25 daily, but few rise to the elite level. For Albassam, reaching pro status meant juggling school deadlines with daily training — a discipline that set him apart.
“Balancing my life as a student and competitive esports was a critical part of my early journey,” he said.
“I made it a priority to stay focused on studies and exams, while also dedicating time daily for practice. That discipline shaped my mindset as a player — learning to manage pressure, stay consistent, and remain committed to both education and gaming.”
Albassam trained for 1 to 2 hours each day, maintaining his focus on improvement even during exam seasons.
🏆 School eLeague: A Gateway to Greatness
His journey started with the School eLeague, a grassroots initiative by the Saudi Esports Federation in collaboration with the Ministry of Education. His performances quickly caught attention as he represented the Eastern Province in the national EA Sports FC 25 tournament.
After clinching first place in the School eLeague Championship, Albassam was signed by Twisted Minds — marking his official entry into the professional arena.
“The School eLeague was my first step into the professional scene,” he shared.
“It served as the gateway to join one of the top teams in Saudi Arabia and represent them in the Saudi eLeague ‘EA FC 25’ tournament.”
⚔️ The Pro Circuit: New Levels, New Lessons
Transitioning to the Saudi eLeague was no small leap. Albassam faced seasoned players with accolades and international experience.
“The biggest difference is the intensity,” he noted.
“You’re up against top-tier players from every club. It’s a far more competitive environment — one that forces you to grow fast.”
Being part of Twisted Minds only sharpened his hunger to win and evolve, with the pressure to perform driving his rapid development.
🌍 Saudi Arabia’s Vision for Esports Excellence
Albassam’s rise reflects the broader success of Saudi Arabia’s esports strategy. Through initiatives like the Schools eLeague, the Saudi Esports Federation is cultivating a talent pipeline — empowering young players to transform passion into professional careers.
This national push aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, which includes turning Saudi Arabia into a global hub for gaming and esports.
👪 Family Support: From Doubt to Belief
Like many young esports athletes, Albassam initially faced skepticism at home.
“My family had some concerns at first, which is natural,” he admitted.
“But over time, they saw the real opportunities in esports — especially with the support the industry is getting here in the Kingdom.”
Their support became unwavering as Albassam proved that esports is not just a hobby — but a serious and promising profession.
“Like with any emerging field, initial doubt is normal. But once it becomes real, it becomes normal,” he said with a smile
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