In Beni Suef in the south of Egypt, boxing coach Sabah Abdel Halim, 36, stands inside a small training hall, giving instructions to male players inside a boxing ring. She trains a group of young men two days a week.

“I have had my share of disapproval and criticism ever since I started doing what I do. Not only because I am a woman who trains men, but also because I'm doing this while living in Upper Egypt, where it is not common for a woman to play any sport, let alone practice sports around men,” Abdel Halim told Al-Monitor.

“When a woman coaches men on a sport like boxing, the voices of condemnation are loud. In Egypt in general, and in Upper Egypt in particular, men still refuse to play against women, let alone receive training from women. It was difficult for some to accept a woman as their coach. Criticism, attacks, obstacles and harsh nights, I have had it all,” she said. 

She went on, “Rural areas are dominated by traditions and customs. When I started boxing, I didn't like it at first. I was afraid of getting hit in the face. But with time, I loved the experience. It became my favorite game. I won several local championships and earned 10 medals at the state level.”