SAN FRANCISCO (AP) - Dr. Nasser Mohamed, who was born in Qatar, appeared outside Chase Center dressed in a traditional Qatari bisht, adorned with rainbow piping and inscriptions of "love" and "freedom" in Arabic. As the England-Croatia World Cup match was displayed on a large screen, he expressed the significance of his presence, stating, "That’s why the World Cup is really powerful, because people don’t need to hear about who I am – I can just walk, be seen, and that’s it." Mohamed, an openly gay man, had come out four years prior while living in San Francisco, seeking to represent those who lack a voice in a country where homosexuality is illegal and self-expression is constrained.
The 39-year-old activist feels much more secure now, embracing his identity with confidence, wearing chunky heeled boots, makeup, and large earrings. Though he has faced threats and backlash for his openness, the overwhelming support he received from the San Francisco community has made it easier for him to cope with the adversities of his situation. "I am so loved in San Francisco, really, truly," he remarked, highlighting the transformative impact the city has had on his life, enabling him to wear what he once did as a child in Qatar once again.
Mohamed has taken on a pivotal role in advocating for LGBTQ+ rights through his "Love is the Goal" campaign, launched in anticipation of the World Cup and Pride Month. This initiative aims to humanize all individuals involved in the tournament. Through creative videos that merge soccer terminology with messages of love, Mohamed strives to spread positivity and acceptance. He reflected on the struggles associated with his journey, acknowledging, "Saving a life like mine is very expensive, and I know that, and this is the hard truth." His bold decision to pursue a path of advocacy came after experiencing complete disownment from his family in Qatar due to his sexual orientation and activism.
On June 13, 2026, Mohamed attended Qatar's first World Cup match against Switzerland in Santa Clara, California, where he was escorted by California state Senator Scott Wiener. Despite having taken security precautions, the attention he received during the event was overwhelming. He described the emotional turmoil of returning to a semblance of his homeland, expressing, "In the stadium, I couldn’t speak because if I started talking, I’m not going to stop crying, because when am I going to see Qatar again in my life?" His sentiment reflects the deep personal conflict that comes with being an expatriate advocating for change from afar.
Following the match, Mohamed hosted a celebratory dance party at the San Francisco Mint, where a poignant performance titled "Let Your Love Shine" captivated attendees. His close friend, Simon Tam, praised Mohamed's courageous journey and emphasized how his actions help others feel seen and valued. The hope underlying Mohamed's mission is to create a world where every child can belong to their family and community, irrespective of their identity or sexual orientation.
Despite the joy he finds in advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, it still pains Mohamed to know he cannot return to Qatar. He remains committed to helping others escape persecution, including individuals who have faced imprisonment and torture. Though he harbors fears for his own safety, he recognizes the importance of building a supportive network for those who seek asylum or refuge in the United States.
As the World Cup progresses, Mohamed continues to cheer for both Qatar and the United States, reflecting a complex relationship with both places he once called home and a testament to the love and connection he strives to foster in the face of adversity. "I am cheering for both the United States and for Qatar with love," he affirmed, characterizing his challenges as expressions of love for both nations.
