Standing Ovation for Bondi Hero Ahmed al-Ahmed at Sold-Out Ashes Test in Sydney
Ahmed al-Ahmed, who helped disarm one of two gunmen during the Bondi terror attack, received a standing ovation as he walked onto the Sydney Cricket Ground pitch before the first day of the final Ashes test in the 2025/26 series.
The tribute took place in front of a sold-out crowd at the SCG. Al-Ahmed was joined by 14-year-old Chaya Dadon, who arrived on crutches after being shot in the leg while shielding two children during the attack on 14 December.
Names of fifteen victims were displayed on stadium screens with the message "forever in our hearts" as first responders led a procession onto the pitch. This group included intensive care paramedics, doctors from Royal Prince Alfred and St Vincent’s hospitals, lifeguards, and NSW Police officers.
Australian team captain Usman Khawaja led the team in greeting al-Ahmed and Dadon. The ground announcer also extended thanks to the responders. NSW sports minister Steve Kamper and Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg were in attendance.
Australian players Alex Carey and Cameron Green applauded as al-Ahmed and Dadon walked by, showing public appreciation for their courage and resilience.
