(WASHINGTON, DC) - Saudi Ambassador to the United States Abdullah Al-Saud issued the following statement today on the passing of Mr. Muhammad Ali:

“On behalf of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz and the people of Saudi Arabia, I wish to express our deep sadness on the passing of a great athlete and a great man Muhammad Ali.  Mr. Ali challenged conventions, broke barriers and inspired generations of people around the world.  His accomplishments as an athlete were matched by his commitment to social justice and his courage and perseverance. The world is a better place because of the example he set for all of us.  Our sincere thoughts and prayers are with his family, may he rest in peace."