Morocco’s Olympic champion Soufiane El Bakkali said on Wednesday that the Wissam (decoration) he received from King Mohammed VI is “a source of immense pride and motivation to represent Morocco with honor in upcoming major international sporting events.”
In a press statement following the honorary ceremony at the Royal Palace in Tétouan, El Bakkali expressed his heartfelt thanks and deep gratitude to the King for the “constant support and ongoing encouragement” that have enabled him to sustain his momentum and achieve further success for Morocco.
The international champion also shared his profound pride and joy at being awarded the Royal decoration.
The sovereign awarded Bakkali Ouissam Al Arch, Commander’s Order, in recognition of his outstanding performance at the Paris 2024 Paris Olympic Games.
El Bakkali won Morocco’s first gold medal in the 3000 m steeplechase with a time of 8:06.05 at the Olympic Games.