A tournament was held at amateur club DCG in Amsterdam-West to honor Abdelhak Nouri, the former Ajax player who has been living with a low level of consciousness since suffering a heart attack in 2017. The event aimed to raise money for a new main stand at DCG, Nouri’s first club, and to celebrate his life and values.
The tournament featured a team of “Friends of Nouri,” including former stars like Mounir El Hamdaoui, Oussama Assaidi, and Anouar Diba, coached by Willem van Hanegem. Nouri’s father, Mohammed, expressed pride in his son and gratitude for the support shown by the community.
The event emphasized connection, solidarity, faith, humility, and accessibility, reflecting the values of the Nouri family. Participants conveyed the importance of unity and looking out for each other, highlighting the sense of community that Nouri fostered.
The Nouri Foundation, established in his name, is committed to improving cardiac safety in sports through resuscitation courses and the installation of AEDs.
The tournament brought together people from diverse backgrounds, including former teammates, coaches, and fans, all united in their admiration for Nouri. Speakers emphasized his positive impact on others, his humor, and his ability to connect with people from all walks of life.
Nouri collapsed on the field in Austria on July 8, 2017, due to a heart attack, resulting in brain damage from lack of oxygen. Since then, he has required 24-hour care.