Content creator TheSaudiPinoy recently had a lighthearted moment with June Mar Fajardo in Jeddah during Gilas Pilipinas’ campaign in the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup.
Big man June Mar Fajardo was able to try on some traditional Saudi Arabian attire during Gilas Pilipinas' campaign in the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup quarterfinals in Jeddah, thanks to one special fan.
The lightheared moment came from TheSaudiPinoy, real name Ahmed Alruwaili, a Saudi nurse based in Riyadh who has won over Filipinos with his viral videos celebrating Pinoy culture.
With 23.9K subscribers on YouTube, 3,192 followers on Instagram, and a massive 1.7M followers on Facebook, Ahmed has become an unlikely cultural bridge between Saudi Arabia and the Philippines.
The content creator couldn’t hide his joy after a dream encounter with his idol at the Jeddah Sports Hall.
“Idol June Mar Fajardo become Arabo! Idol, I’m so happy to see you — I’ve been your fan since 2020, Ako is your number 1 supporter (after your mommy) talaka. Good luck next game Gilas! Even though my country team lost because of you, I am still your number 1 supporter. Next time I want to see you at the San Miguel Beermen game in the Philippines,” he posted.
Ahmed's content often showcases Filipino culture, music, humor, and hospitality — from singing and “budots” dancing to heartfelt messages for OFWs.
He even once had dinner with Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach, an encounter he described as “an honor.”
His uploads feature a mix of comedic skits and acts of kindness — from giving flowers and food to Filipino nurses, to visiting Filipino schools, to handing out electric fans to workers under the scorching Saudi heat.
His connection with Filipinos began about six years ago through early morning basketball games with a group of Filipino baristas.
Over time, the camaraderie, breakfasts of pancit and pan de sal, and his work alongside Filipino colleagues deepened his appreciation for the culture.
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Ahmed shifted from purely comedic content to highlighting the heroism of Filipino nurses on the frontlines.
While Gilas Pilipinas’ 2025 FIBA Asia Cup run ended in the quarterfinals, the meeting between June Mar Fajardo and TheSaudiPinoy showed how basketball and cultural appreciation can connect people across countries.
Watch the full video here: