SerpApi.Org
An Egyptian basketball player has broken two Guinness World Records, including one held by a Harlem Globetrotter.
Alie Wessam, 21, broke records for the farthest basketball hook shot from a distance of 25.26 m (82 ft 10 in) and the farthest basketball shot made backwards from 27.60 m (90 ft 6 in) away, according to Guinness World Records (GWR). He claimed both records on the same day and stood right on the other side of the court while doing so.
The backwards shot record was previously held by Harlem Globetrotters star Corey “Thunder” Law, who made a shot from 87 feet and 8 inches in 2024.
“It’s an incredible feeling,” Wessam who played for the Egypt national team, said of breaking that record. “I’ve watched the Harlem Globetrotters since I was a child, so breaking one of their records is something I never imagined would happen.”
“I have huge respect for everything they’ve accomplished, but as a competitor, my goal is always to push myself further. I’d love to challenge more of their records in the future,” the 21-year-old told GWR.
Ever since Wessam was a child, he dreamed of seeing his name in the Guinness World Records Book. “I didn’t know what record it would be, but I always believed that one day I would find something that matched my passion.
“Basketball became that passion. I spent years training, competing, and pushing myself to become a better player. One day, while filming trick shots for social media, I had the idea of attempting an extremely long backward shot. Instead of treating it as just another video, I asked myself, ‘What if this could become a Guinness World Records title?’
“That question changed everything,” Wessam said.
To boost his power and reach, he researched the existing records, built a training program, and collaborated with a fitness coach. He devoted hours to refining his technique.
“It wasn’t just about making one incredible shot – it became a journey of discipline, patience, and believing that an impossible goal could become reality,” he explained.
“Breaking the record wasn’t the end of the dream; it was the beginning. I hope to continue pushing the limits of what’s possible, break more records in the future, and inspire others to chase dreams that seem impossible at first.”
Wessam started playing basketball when he was four years old and has since played for the Egyptian national team. GWR said he has also been ranked among the best players in his age range during his career.
The 21-year-old student still plays as part of his scholarship at Qatar University, the outlet noted.
Landing each of his records didn’t come easily, though, as it took around 45 minutes before he achieved one of them, leaving him “physically and mentally exhausted”.
“Honestly, it felt unreal. It was a dream that had finally come true. I had imagined that moment for years, but when it actually happened, I could hardly believe it. All the hard work, training, and sacrifices suddenly felt worth it,” Wessam said.
“I’ve already attempted several more records on my own and even surpassed some existing marks, but they weren’t official attempts. My goal is to return and break many more Guinness World Records titles in an official setting.
“I believe I have the potential to set another 10 to 15 records with the right support, preparation, and opportunities.”
Guinness World Records Adjudicator Kanzy Defrawy, who supervised Wessam’s attempts, said, “This was a very emotional adjudication for me. Watching Alie achieve something he has worked so hard for was truly special. I am extremely proud of what he accomplished and grateful to have been part of such an important moment in his journey. Moments like these remind us why Guinness World Records is so meaningful to so many people around the world.”
The Egyptian basketball player hopes his story would inspire others to never give up on their dreams. “I started with nothing more than a childhood dream and an idea for a basketball trick shot. Through years of dedication, discipline, and persistence, that dream became an official Guinness World Records title,” he said.
“I hope people see that success doesn’t always come from having the perfect opportunities – it comes from believing in yourself, working hard, and refusing to give up.
“If my journey encourages even one person to chase a goal they once thought was impossible, then I’ll consider that another achievement I’m proud of.”
