Saad El-Hawli’s journey from local football fields to the big stage of the AFL has inspired many fans. In this article, you will know Saad El-Hawli’s net worth, career earnings, career overview, stats, relationship, and more.
Get the latest on his rise at Essendon, including his stats and personal details, all in simple and clear language.
Saad El-Hawli’s Biography
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Saad El-Hawli |
| Date of Birth | 15 May 2001 |
| Age | 24 |
| Nationality | Australian (Lebanese descent) |
| Height | 184cm |
| Turned Pro | 2024 |
| Net Worth | $175,000 |
| Salary | $167,900 |
| Wife | Married |
| Instagram Profile | @saadelhawli |
Early Career
Saad El-Hawli grew up in Victoria, Australia, with strong roots in the Lebanese community. Picking up football at a young age, he showcased his skills in the 2019 NAB League while playing for the Western Jets. El-Hawli navigated a tough 2020 season as the local football leagues paused due to the pandemic.
In 2021, he joined Altona in the Western Region Football League and quickly shined as the club’s leading goalkicker. His determination took him to the 2021 WRFL Team of the Year.
El-Hawli signed with Werribee Football Club in the VFL, making his debut with grit and passion. Despite setbacks and limited playtime, he switched to the Northern Bullants in 2023, where his performance in early games caught the eye of AFL club Essendon.
Professional Career
The 2024 AFL mid-season rookie draft became a major turning point for El-Hawli as Essendon selected him with pick number 13. Strong VFL performances, including multiple games with high disposals and goals, displayed his versatility as a winger.
Despite a syndesmosis injury cutting his 2024 campaign short, he worked hard in recovery. In 2025, El-Hawli debuted for Essendon in round 3 at Marvel Stadium against Port Adelaide and made an instant impression.
Playing five games before a hamstring injury, he gained recognition for high intensity, adaptability on the wing, and a career-high performance with 21 disposals and his first AFL goal in round 9. Essendon showed their faith in his ability by signing him for an additional season through 2026.
Saad El-Hawli’s Net Worth Details
As of 2025, Saad El-Hawli’s estimated net worth stands at around $175,000. This figure sums up his AFL salary, match payments, and select endorsements.
Contract
Essendon offered El-Hawli a one-year contract extension for the 2026 season following his impressive start at the senior level. Drafted mid-season in 2024, he demonstrated growth and dedication, which led Essendon’s leadership to commit to him as a developing wing and halfback.
His contract includes a standard AFL base salary along with potential bonuses for team and individual performance.
Salary Details
For the 2025 AFL season, El-Hawli’s base salary is $167,900 with additional match payments pushing his annual earnings slightly higher. As a relatively new player to the AFL, his earnings reflect both his rookie status and the potential for increased deals as he cements his place in the league.
The Essendon Football Club values his versatility and improvement, positioning him for future contract growth.
Career Earnings
| Year | Team | Salary |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Essendon | $119,900 |
| 2025 | Essendon | $167,900 |
Career Stats
| Season | Games | Disposals | Marks | Goals | Avg. Disposals | Avg. Marks | Avg. Goals |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 5 | 56 | 12 | 1 | 11.2 | 2.4 | 0.2 |
FAQs
1. When did Saad El-Hawli make his AFL debut and what stood out about his first game?
He made his AFL debut for Essendon in round 3 of the 2025 season against Port Adelaide at Marvel Stadium. He impressed with his high energy and quick transitions, showing confidence and making an instant impact on the field.
2. What is Saad El-Hawli’s family background and who inspires him?
El-Hawli comes from a close-knit Lebanese-Australian family with strong Islamic values. His cousin, Bachar Houli, has inspired him with his impressive AFL career and dedication to both family and community, shaping El-Hawli’s approach as both a player and a role model.
3. How did El-Hawli earn his contract extension with Essendon?
After delivering solid performances in the VFL and showing grit in his first five AFL games, El-Hawli earned a one-year extension thanks to his work ethic, versatility on the wing, and the club’s belief in his future growth. Essendon appreciates his dedication to improvement and resilience following injury setbacks.
4. What challenges has Saad El-Hawli faced throughout his football journey?
He faced being overlooked early in his career, injuries like a syndesmosis setback, and balancing football with work commitments. His persistence and drive helped him move from local leagues, through the VFL, and finally break into the AFL despite setbacks.
5. How does El-Hawli connect with his community off the field?
El-Hawli takes pride in his Muslim faith and Lebanese heritage. He often participates in community events, supports the next generation through involvement with the Bachar Houli Foundation, and uses his platform to be a positive influence for young athletes in multicultural communities.
