A high-profile former striker turned heads at this year’s Doha 10?km race.

He stood out not just for speed but for the confidence of someone used to competing at the highest level.

While most participants wore standard running gear, he chose a full football club kit.

Spectators recognized the colours before identifying the face.

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As he crossed the finish line, the cheers felt more like a crowd in a stadium than at a community run.

That runner was Nicolas Anelka, once a promising forward for Liverpool during the 2001–02 season and later a Paris Saint?Germain player.

In Doha, he wore the full PSG kit to take part in the Ooredoo-sponsored 10?km event.

This wasn’t a random choice—it tied into his ongoing support of Qatar’s evolving sports profile, marked earlier in the year at the Trophée des Champions, also held in Doha’s Stadium?974.

As a former Red, Anelka’s presence reminded Liverpool fans of his time here.

Though his stay at Anfield was brief, he made an impact, netting five goals in 22 matches during his loan spell.

Seeing him maintain such a high level of fitness and sporting pride—even in a different kit—underscores the lasting influence of players who once lined up at Anfield.

From a Liverpool standpoint, it’s encouraging to see alumni like Anelka stay active and involved in major sporting events.

Whether running in PSG colours or remembered in our own, his athletic spirit shines through.

It’s a reminder that the energy and dedication of former Reds continue to resonate—on any field, in any country.

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