A video circulating on social media shows American basketball star Kyrie Irving wearing a t-shirt featuring the image of Palestinian journalist and athlete, Saleh Al-Ja’frawi. The gesture has sparked widespread reaction and renewed attention on Al-Ja’frawi following his death.
Saleh Al-Ja’frawi was a young Palestinian journalist known also for his athletic achievements. He was a champion table tennis player and represented Palestine in numerous international competitions. Following his death, images of him participating in sporting events, proudly displaying the Palestinian flag, resurfaced. These images reintroduced him to the public not only as a journalist but as an athlete who carried his cause onto the world stage.
The footage shows Irving wearing the shirt, emblazoned with Al-Ja’frawi’s image, during what appears to be a public appearance. Many view this as a message of solidarity and a tribute to the memory of the Palestinian sports journalist, emphasizing his humanitarian and athletic contributions beyond his tragic death.
Al-Ja’frawi was reported dead on October 12, 2025, shortly after the declared ceasefire in Gaza. Palestinian sources indicated that he was shot by armed men collaborating with the occupation forces in the Tel Al-Hawa neighborhood, south of Gaza City, while documenting the destruction with his camera.
This act by Irving highlights the ongoing awareness of Palestinian issues on the global stage. It also demonstrates the power of athletes to use their platform to raise awareness about important causes.
