Basketball Player Djalil Hadi Saves Man From Drowning in France

Algerian basketball player Djalil Hadi performed a heroic act in Salon-de-Provence, France, saving a 55-year-old man from drowning in a water canal. The 23-year-old, who plays point guard for 'Pay Salon Basket 13' and represents the Algerian national 3x3 basketball team, witnessed the man intentionally jump into the water after crossing a bridge barrier. Hadi, returning from training, immediately intervened without hesitation, shedding his shoes and personal belongings before leaping into the canal.

Despite a strong current and the man being unconscious with his face submerged, Hadi managed to reach him. The rescue proved challenging due to the man's weight, estimated between 90 and 100 kilograms, and a heavy woolen sweater he was wearing, which increased the difficulty of pulling him. Hadi exerted considerable effort to turn the man's body and raise his head from the water, then pulled him towards the bank. Once on land, Hadi observed that the man had stopped breathing and his face color had changed, prompting him to initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) for several minutes.

Hadi continued CPR for approximately four minutes, described by him as feeling like an eternity, while shouting for help. A passing couple responded, with the woman assisting in resuscitation while her companion contacted emergency services. The man suddenly regained consciousness and took a deep breath just before paramedics arrived, who then transported him to a hospital for necessary care. Hadi expressed immense relief upon seeing the man breathe again, having feared he would die before help arrived.

Hadi attributed his life-saving skills to a short lesson on a training dummy he received ten years prior in middle school in Lévignen, France, emphasizing the importance of first aid education. He stated his motivation was a human duty and a desire to present a positive image of Muslims in French society, reflecting the true values of his religion and identity. The Mayor of Salon-de-Provence praised Hadi for his bravery and sacrifice, especially considering the known dangers of the canal, which includes powerful dams and turbines. Hadi, who holds both Algerian and French nationalities, is currently performing well in the National First Division and aims to return to an elite league after recovering from a previous injury.