Recent matches in the Tunisian football league have brought disturbing images of players from CS Sfaxien and AS Gabès collapsing on the ground. The incidents were attributed to the extreme weakness resulting from fasting during Ramadan, which began on February 18. Observing Muslims are required to refrain from food and drink, including water, from dawn until sunset, which poses significant challenges for professional athletes competing in the midday sun.

The match between CS Sfaxien and AS Gabès took place at 1:00 PM on March 1, a time when fasting players had already been without food and water for several hours. The effects of the intense heat combined with the fasting were evident, with athletes struggling physically as they attempted to play a full 90 minutes without energy. Some players experienced severe issues, including painful cramps and fainting spells, raising concerns over their health and well-being during such strenuous conditions.

The shocking images have circulated on social media, prompting discussions around the scheduling of athletic events during significant religious observances such as Ramadan. Both fans and commentators are questioning how sporting schedules can be adjusted to better accommodate the needs of fasting athletes, highlighting the broader implications for sports governance and the welfare of players during extremely challenging conditions.