Australian national team forward Tete Yengi has announced his conversion to Islam, just days before his country’s crucial 2026 World Cup Round of 32 showdown against Egypt.
Yengi revealed that his path to Islam was not the result of a sudden decision or a single life-changing moment. Instead, he described it as a natural spiritual journey and an leap of faith that developed gradually over time.
A Providential Encounter with Mufti Menk
Recalling his conversion, Yengi shared an inspiring story from a visit to a mosque in his hometown of Adelaide, Australia. After attending Jumu’ah (Friday) prayer, he crossed paths with the world-renowned Islamic scholar, Mufti Ismail Menk.
According to the 25-year-old striker, Mufti Menk asked if he had officially taken his Shahada (testimony of faith). When Yengi replied that he hadn’t, the scholar warmly invited him to do so, a gesture the Socceroos forward immediately and wholeheartedly embraced.
From South Sudanese Roots to the 2026 World Cup
Born in 2000 to a family that immigrated to Australia from South Sudan, Yengi has emerged as one of the most promising talents for the Socceroos.
The powerful forward spent last season on loan at Japanese club Machida Zelvia and is set to return to Scottish side Livingston after the World Cup. His European club career also includes spells in England with Ipswich Town and Northampton Town.
On the international stage, Yengi’s journey with Australia kicked off just before the World Cup, where he scored his debut goal in a friendly against Switzerland. In the 2026 tournament, he featured for 21 minutes during the group stage, making impactful appearances against Turkey and Paraguay.
