Now standing at the podium, Salah looked at the golden trophy, tracking its surface with his fingers before gently lifting it.
Clap! Clap!
The roar of the crowd surged again; fans, footballers, and icons applauding and recognizing a player who had defied odds at every step of his journey.
He cleared his throat, the weight of history pressing down.
Then, with humility and pride, he spoke. "This award…, this isn't just for me," he began, his voice steady. "It's for everyone who believed".
He grinned. "It's for Egypt, for Africa, for every kid who dreams with a ball at their feet".
"I am the first African to win the ballon d'or award since the legend, George Weah," he said, his voice turning emotional. "It's an honor".
The crowd cheered louder, and the camera panned to icons of African football; some with knowing smiles, others nodding in pride.
Tonight was more than a personal victory; it was a statement.
