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3. From the FIBA Hall of Fame to Interpol: Fadi El-Khatib at the Center of Turmoil

A national hero on the basketball courts and a source of pride for Lebanon, Fadi El-Khatib, nicknamed the "Lebanese Tiger," now faces accusations of fraud, extortion, and threats. An international arrest warrant has been issued against him, shaking his image as a sports legend.

Fate can sometimes take a strange turn. Less than eight days after his triumphant induction into the FIBA Hall of Fame, Fadi El-Khatib, an undisputed icon of Lebanese basketball, finds himself entangled in an unexpected judicial scandal.

The Lebanese sports world is in shock. The former captain of the national team, an emblematic figure of the sport and the founder of the Champs academy, is accused of fraud, extortion, and threats. These accusations, revealed by the platform “Charika Walaken,” stem from a complaint filed by a victim who wished to remain anonymous.

Serious Accusations Against a Legend

According to judicial documents, Fadi El-Khatib allegedly threatened to reveal a personal relationship and compromising photos to force the complainant to collaborate on real estate projects or invest in his initiatives. The sums involved reportedly exceed $3.25 million.

Even more gravely, the former player is said to have increased the pressure by threatening the complainant's life. These actions fall under Articles 655 and 574 of the Lebanese Penal Code, which provide for prison sentences of up to three years.

Interpol Steps In

Despite multiple judicial summons, Fadi El-Khatib has not responded to calls from the judiciary. During one hearing, his lawyer cited health reasons for his absence but failed to provide a medical certificate.

In light of this repeated absence, Investigating Judge Bilal Halawi issued an arrest warrant in absentia. Then, on December 30, 2024, the Lebanese General Prosecutor’s Office took a decisive step by requesting Interpol to locate and repatriate the former player. The Internal Security Forces are now working with Interpol, underscoring the national and international gravity of the case.

The Fall of a National Hero?

Nicknamed the "Lebanese Tiger" for his achievements on the basketball court, Fadi El-Khatib carried the hopes of an entire nation for nearly two decades. A legendary captain, he symbolized resilience and excellence in Lebanese sports. His successful transition to entrepreneurship with the Champs academy further enhanced his reputation, making him a role model for young generations.

Today, this exemplary image is under serious threat. If the accusations are proven true, they could irreversibly tarnish the legacy of a legend who inspired millions of Lebanese.

Reactions and the Case’s Future

The case has sent shockwaves throughout Lebanon and beyond. "This is a real tragedy for Lebanese sports," said a fan interviewed by This is Beirut. Others have expressed hope that justice will take its course fairly, while reminding everyone of the presumption of innocence.

Beyond its personal impact, this case could deal a severe blow to the reputation of Lebanese sports. The next judicial steps will be crucial. If extradited, Fadi El-Khatib will have to answer these serious accusations in Lebanese courts.

A Glimmer of Hope or a Brutal End?

This case, while shocking, serves as a reminder that no one is immune to life's twists and turns. Whether it is a misunderstanding to resolve or an irreversible downfall, only the courts can shed light on this dark affair.

Nonetheless, it is difficult to forget what Fadi El-Khatib once represented. A unifier of a fragmented country through his sporting achievements, he embodied hope, resilience, and excellence. Today, this legend faces a trial as intense as the decisive matches he played.

His legacy, whether salvaged or tarnished, will now hinge on the outcome of this procedure. One thing is certain: in Lebanon, the fall can sometimes be as brutal as the ascent was dazzling.