Ibtihaj Muhammad to become first hijab-wearing US Olympian

Fencer Ibtihaj Muhammad will inspire women across the globe in Rio this summer when she becomes the first hijab-wearing US athlete to compete at an Olympics, according to Muslim Women’s Sport Foundation chair Rimla Akhtar.

Muhammad - a 2014 World Team Championships gold medallist - sealed her spot in the US fencing team at a qualifying event in Athens last week.

And Akhtar, who is the only Muslim female on the 121-strong FA Council, is convinced Muhammad's appearance in Rio will help to promote inclusion and diversity in sport.

"She is going to be the first ever hijabi sportswoman competing for the US at an Olympics, which is amazing," Akhtar told Sky Sports.

"She is one of the most well-known role models out there for Muslim women and she is so proud of who she is. She is proud of her American-ness and proud of her Muslim roots.

"Ibtihaj has been able to combine her passion for fencing and her passion for her faith. She is doing great things for women right across the globe from all backgrounds."

Muhammad hails from Maplewood, New Jersey and is a three-time All-American and a former Junior Olympic champion.

Her success has also been greeted by kickboxer Ruqsana Begum, who fights Josefine Lindgren Knutsson for a world title in London in April.

"It's a great story," Begum said, during an appearance at the British Ethnic Diversity Sports Awards hosted by Sporting Equals.

"I think it will break down barriers because it will allow her to be judged according to her ability rather than her appearance. Hopefully the whole country will be behind her due to her talent rather than the way she looks."