ALEXANDRIA, Egypt — Ever since the security situation in Syria began to deteriorate with the eruption of the war in 2011, many sports players were killed while others fled the country. Those who escaped abroad have found it difficult to relaunch their careers in their new homes.

Abdul Razzaq al-Hallak, 29, was on Syria's taekwondo national team in 2006. Originally from Damascus, he arrived in Egypt in 2012, where he settled in Alexandria and now makes a living decorating ceilings. He also works as a sports trainer for UNICEF.

Hallak competed in the World Taekwondo Championships, which was held in South Korea June 24-30 as part of the National Syrian Team. The Arab Syrian Federation of Athletics covered the expenses for Hallak’s accommodations and participation in the tournament. However, Hallak did not win any prizes due to what he described as “psychological pressures” prior to the championship.

Hallak told Al-Monitor, “I did not have a coach to train me; I practiced all by myself. I also had to apply for a visa and make my own travel plans, as well as pay for food and vitamins. I was the player, the coach and the agent, all at once.”