The legendary Iranian striker refused the invitation of FIFA and the Qatar Football Federation.
These days when most of us can't feel okay, I turned down an official offer from FIFA and Qatar Football Federation to attend the World Cup with my wife and daughters.
Ali Daei
The riots and protests taking place in Iran were caused by the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, who was detained for improper dress code. The Iranian footballer expressed his sympathy to the people of the country and said he would stay in his homeland during these difficult days.
Ali Daei ended his soccer career in 2007, and remained the top scorer of national teams for another 14 years. Cristiano Ronaldo broke his goal record for national teams in 2021.