In the world of football, hatred doesn't arise from nothing, and controversy doesn't erupt without cause. Often, consistent success is the initial spark, and unwavering dominance is the fuel that keeps it burning. This explains the recurring question in Saudi sporting circles: "Why don't they like you, Al-Hilal?" The answer lies in the fact that Al-Hilal didn't follow the conventional path taken by most clubs. Instead, it steadily climbed the ladder of success, leaping early to the podium and establishing a sporting project born a giant.
Historical context: Establishing a winning culture
Al-Hilal Club was founded in 1957, and from its earliest days, it was not merely a fleeting project or a temporary fixture in the competitive landscape. It was built on planning, institutional work, and a deep respect for professionalism at a time when many clubs were managed through reactions and emotions. While others sought a championship to prove their existence, Al-Hilal quietly built its system and established a "culture of winning" long before it became a common term. It understood early on that championships are not won solely on the field, but also in the corridors of power through sound strategic, administrative, and financial planning. This early professional approach gave it a head start and allowed glory to pursue it instead of the other way around.
The importance of dominance and its impact on competition
Al-Hilal's dominance, nicknamed "The Leader" for being the most decorated club in Saudi Arabia with over 68 official titles, is more than just a matter of numbers. It has defied comparisons and shattered the notion of a "cycle" where giants are expected to fall. "The Leader" has made consistency the rule, explaining the constant debate surrounding it. Domestically, this dominance has fueled intense rivalry, especially in the Riyadh derby against their traditional rivals, Al-Nassr, where every match is a battle to prove their superiority. Continentally, Al-Hilal has established itself as the undisputed king of Asia, winning the AFC Champions League four times (a record), becoming the benchmark for success that every club on the continent aspires to.
Al-Hilal in an era of transformation: from local to global
Amid the significant transformation underway in Saudi sports as part of Vision 2030, Al-Hilal has emerged as a key player in this ambitious project. Its acquisition of global stars like Neymar, Ruben Neves, and Aleksandar Mitrovic was not merely about strengthening the squad; it was a clear message that the club's ambitions transcended regional boundaries and reached the global stage. This unwavering commitment to its philosophy of excellence, in an era where projects and ambitions shift, is what makes Al-Hilal a mirror reflecting the difference between fleeting success and lasting dominance. For this reason, Al-Hilal remains the benchmark against which others are measured, and the path to championship titles is not paved with slogans, but with hard work, a strong mindset, and perseverance – the very principles upon which "The Leader" built its history and continues to shape its present.
