President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has extended his condolences following the passing of Mohammed Arif (Baka), a former midfielder of the national football team.

Arif passed away on Tuesday while receiving treatment in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) after his condition deteriorated.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter) this evening, President Dr. Muizzu stated that Arif made significant contributions to the advancement of sports in the Maldives, particularly in football. The President described his passing as a profound loss for all Maldivian citizens.

"In this moment of sorrow, I pray for patience for Mohammed Arif's family. May Allah grant him eternal bliss in Paradise and hold him in His mercy," the President said.

Arif, 38, experienced a sudden decline in health after returning from Hajj pilgrimage. Reports indicate that he had contracted an illness during the pilgrimage, but his condition worsened rapidly due to a high fever.

He was widely regarded as one of the most successful midfielders in Maldivian football history. His career began in 2004 with Island FC, emerging from the Addu Youth Development Program. He subsequently played for several prominent clubs, including VB Addu FC, Valencia, New Radiant, Victory, Eagles, and Maziya.

In 2015 Arif had a stint abroad playing for Kanbawza in the Myanmar League. He was named the Maldives' Best Player in 2010 and secured the runner-up position for the same title in 2011.

Having represented the national team in 58 matches, he played in the 2005 SAFF Championship. He also played a crucial role in the Maldives' trophy-winning team in 2008 and was part of the squad that clinched the gold medal in the 2018 SAFF Championship.

This news marks the end of an era for Maldivian football, with the loss of a player who significantly impacted the national sports scene over nearly two decades.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​