Another American Journalist Pronounced Dead During World Cup

Only a few hours after American soccer journalist Grant Wahl passed away on Sunday, a second journalist covering the World Cup in Qatar also passed away.

According to the Gulf-Times, Qatari photojournalist Khalid al-Misslam “died suddenly” while covering the competition there. He worked for Al Kass TV.

“Al Kass TV photojournalist Khalid al-Misslam passed away recently,” the Gulf-Times wrote in a tweet. “Al-Misslam, a Qatari, died suddenly while covering the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. We believe in Allah’s mercy and forgiveness for him, and send our deepest condolences to his family.”

Only a few hours earlier, Wahl had died while covering an Argentina vs. Netherlands World Cup match. During extra time, Wahl sat back in his seat in a section of Lusail Stadium, and nearby reporters called for help.

He was covering his eighth World Cup, and he noted on Monday that while in Qatar, he went to a medical facility. He sought medical attention for his symptoms but the COVID-19 test came back negative.

“My body finally broke down on me. Three weeks of little sleep, high stress and lots of work can do that to you,” Wahl said. “I went into the medical clinic at the main media center today, and they said I probably have bronchitis. They gave me a course of antibiotics and some heavy-duty cough syrup, and I’m already feeling a bit better just a few hours later. But still: No bueno.”

Early in the competition, Wahl was detained because he was wearing a rainbow T-shirt in support of LGBTQ rights. Prior to his detention, he was initially denied entry but was later granted access.