Editing Maldives (section)

=== Sports ===
Sports in the Maldives are deeply ingrained in the culture of the island nation, with a diverse array of activities reflecting both traditional pastimes and modern sporting pursuits. Given its unique geography of scattered islands surrounded by the Indian Ocean, water sports naturally hold a prominent position. [[Surfing]], in particular, has gained international recognition, with waves that cater to both beginners and seasoned surfers. Locations such as the atolls of North and South Malé, [[Thulusdhoo]], and [[Himmafushi]] offer ideal conditions for enthusiasts to ride the waves throughout the years.<ref>{{cite web |title=Thulusdhoo Island Surf Guide – Maldives Local Island Surfing! |url=https://www.stokedfortravel.com/thulusdhoo-island-surf-guide-maldives-local-island/ |website=Stoked For Travel |date=15 September 2020 |access-date=15 September 2020 |archive-date=25 September 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200925030355/https://www.stokedfortravel.com/thulusdhoo-island-surf-guide-maldives-local-island/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Additionally, diving and snorkeling are immensely popular, allowing locals and tourists alike to explore the rich marine life that thrives in the crystal-clear waters surrounding the Maldives.<ref>{{cite web |title=SNORKELING IN THE MALDIVES |url=https://www.snorkeling-report.com/destination/snorkeling-maldives/ |access-date=19 May 2024 |website=Snorkeling Report |archive-date=1 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240301023117/https://www.snorkeling-report.com/destination/snorkeling-maldives/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
[[File:Topu_Barman_in_action_against_Maldives_in_the_2021_SAFF_Championship.jpg|thumb|[[Maldives national football team|Maldives]] against [[Bangladesh national football team|Bangladesh]] at the [[2021 SAFF Championship]].]]
[[Association football|Football]], or soccer, stands out as one of the most widely played and passionately followed sports in the Maldives.<ref>{{cite news |title=Future of Football: When will a country from South Asia emerge as a powerhouse in the global game? |url=https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11095/12932480/future-of-football-when-will-a-country-from-south-asia-emerge-as-a-powerhouse-in-the-global-game |access-date=4 August 2023 |agency=Sky Sports |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240110145607/https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11095/12932480/future-of-football-when-will-a-country-from-south-asia-emerge-as-a-powerhouse-in-the-global-game |archive-date=10 January 2024}}</ref> [[Maldives national football team|The Maldives national football team]] competes in regional and international tournaments, with a fervent fan base supporting their endeavors. The country has its own domestic football league, the Dhivehi Premier League, featuring clubs from various atolls vying for supremacy.<ref>{{cite web |title=Maldives |url=https://us.soccerway.com/teams/maldives/maldives/1443/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230326175708/https://us.soccerway.com/teams/maldives/maldives/1443/ |archive-date=26 March 2023 |access-date=18 May 2024 |website=Soccerway}}</ref> Matches often draw large crowds, contributing to the vibrant sporting atmosphere of the Maldives. Moreover, futsal enjoys popularity, especially among younger generations, with numerous indoor facilities providing spaces for friendly matches and competitive leagues.
[[File:Maldives (15617923914).jpg|thumb|[[Flyboard]]ing in Maldives|left]]

Traditional Maldivian sports also play a significant role in preserving cultural heritage and promoting physical activity. Bodu Beru, a rhythmic [[drum]]ming and [[dance performance]], often accompanies traditional sports events, adding to the festive ambiance. One such traditional sport is "Baibalaa", a game resembling [[volleyball]] but played with a woven ball made from dried coconut palm leaves. "Fenei Bashi", a form of [[wrestling]], is another traditional sport that showcases strength and agility. These indigenous sports serve as a reminder of the Maldives' rich cultural heritage and continue to be cherished by communities across the islands.