Abdulaziz Al Shehri: Initiating Esports in the Middle East
Abdulaziz Al Shehri
Initiating Esports in the Middle East
Abdulaziz Alshehri, widely known as MrDone, is a trailblazer in the esports world and a source of inspiration for gamers across the Middle East. His journey from an unlikely start to becoming a global champion demonstrates the transformative power of passion, determination, and belief in one’s abilities. With an unrelenting drive to challenge stereotypes and elevate the region’s standing in competitive gaming, Abdulaziz has achieved milestones that have redefined the esports landscape.
Initially, Abdulaziz had no intention of pursuing gaming. It was his brother who introduced him to a newly launched game, suggesting he give it a try. Disinterested at first, Abdulaziz dismissed the game entirely, vowing never to play again. Yet, something pulled him back, and before long, he found himself playing with increasing frequency. What began as a casual interest soon turned into an obsession, leading to a pivotal moment when he defeated the best player in the Middle East during his first year of gaming.
This achievement marked the beginning of his extraordinary journey, transforming a reluctant player into one of the most celebrated esports champions in the region. Abdulaziz’s rise to prominence was driven by a persistent question: why had the Middle East struggled to excel in football or gaming compared to the successes seen in Europe and the United States? This reflection ignited a mindset that became his guiding principle: the belief that hard work and determination could bridge any gap.
For Abdulaziz, it was not about physical or intellectual superiority but about the effort one puts in. His victory at the FIFA World Cup not only validated his philosophy but also inspired countless others in the Middle East to believe in their potential. The ripple effect of his win has been monumental, as more players from the region have emerged on the global stage, driven by the confidence that they, too, can achieve greatness.
Throughout his career, Abdulaziz has collaborated with global organisations that have shaped him both personally and professionally. Working with brands like Red Bull and Adidas has allowed him to contribute to initiatives that make a tangible difference. He fondly recalls his involvement in Red Bull’s Run for Those Who Can’t Run, a project dedicated to supporting people with disabilities.
Similarly, his work with Adidas on Run for the Ocean combined fitness with environmental stewardship, with every kilometre tracked through an app resulting in the removal of a plastic bottle from the ocean. These projects reflect Abdulaziz’s commitment to leveraging his platform to create a better world.
In addition to his competitive pursuits, Abdulaziz has taken on a leadership role in nurturing talent within the region. He founded the MrDone Game On tournament, the first individual competition of its kind in the Middle East. Spanning countries like Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Jordan, and the UAE, the event aims to discover and support emerging players.
The winner earns not only cash prizes but also the opportunity to accompany Abdulaziz to the FIFA World Cup in Madrid and attend the Champions League final. This initiative has further cemented Abdulaziz’s legacy as a mentor and advocate for regional esports talent. Abdulaziz’s journey has not been without challenges.
He vividly remembers a high-stakes match in Madrid against the reigning world champion. Despite facing bias from an organiser who openly supported his opponent, Abdulaziz managed to turn the game around, drawing in the final moments. This victory was not just a triumph on the field but a testament to his resilience. The same organiser who once cheered against him later applauded him as he lifted the World Cup trophy—a moment that encapsulated his ability to overcome adversity and win respect.
The future of esports in Saudi Arabia excites Abdulaziz, as the Kingdom takes bold strides to establish itself as a global hub for gaming. With initiatives like the construction of Al Qiddiya, a city dedicated to gamers, and the hosting of the largest esports World Cup, Saudi Arabia is poised to revolutionise the industry. Abdulaziz credits Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s vision for creating opportunities that will propel esports to unprecedented heights and is proud to contribute to this transformative journey.
Currently, Abdulaziz is the Head of Esports at UR Pay Esports, a fully independent team with enormous potential. In an exclusive for Magnav Magazine, he revealed this exciting development, emphasising his pride in being part of a team that prioritises innovation and independence. As a seasoned professional, Abdulaziz has learned that success in esports hinges as much on mental fortitude as technical skill. Confidence, self-improvement, and resilience are, in his view, the cornerstones of achieving one’s goals.
Looking back, Abdulaziz acknowledges the growth he has undergone, combining youthful courage with invaluable experience. This balance has kept him at the top of his game, with recent achievements including victories in the Agencies Championship and the Middle East Championship, where he remained unbeaten for three consecutive weeks. For aspiring gamers, his advice is both simple and profound: invest time and energy in something you love, stay mentally strong, and remain steadfast in your belief that success is within reach.
Abdulaziz Alshehri’s story is not just about individual triumph but also about lifting an entire region onto the global stage. Through his achievements and initiatives, he has become a symbol of what is possible when talent meets determination. As he continues to push boundaries, Abdulaziz remains a beacon of inspiration, proving that with hard work and self-belief, the seemingly impossible can become reality.