Who Are Dalilah Muhammad’s Parents? Know Everything About Askia Muhammad and Nadirah Muhammad

Dalilah Muhammad, one of the most decorated hurdlers in U.S. history, once said in an interview with Vogue that, “I’ve overcome a lot this year and I just want to show people that anything is possible if you put your mind to it.” Thanks to her toughness and persistent attitude, she became an Olympic champion in the 400m hurdles at the Rio Games in 2016 and got a silver medal at the Tokyo 2020; among her key achievements was setting a world record twice in 2019.

With a legacy built on resilience and excellence, it’s no wonder fans are curious about the roots that shaped her remarkable journey. Behind every champion lies a story of inspiration—and for Dalilah Muhammad, that foundation begins with her parents, Askia Muhammad and Nadirah Muhammad. While Dalilah’s achievements are front and center, her family has also been her strongest pillar. So, who are the people who raised an Olympic legend? 

Who is Dalilah Muhammad’s father?

Dalilah Muhammad’s father is Askia Muhammad, who has been an administrative chaplain for over 26 years at the Islamic Affairs in the New York City Department of Corrections. Dalilah’s father gives religious guidance, monitors Islamic programs, and also provides counseling in correctional facilities. Perhaps it is from here that young Dalilah got the inspiration and discipline that she imbued in her career.

But that’s not where the wisdom of Askia Muhammad ends. No, he once mentioned, “There’s an African proverb that says it takes a village to raise a child, and in our experience, that is the absolute truth. Because so many people contributed to the success of Dalilah and all of our children.” But while Askia is humble in attributing his daughter’s success to the whole community, he didn’t stop trying to instill in them the value of good deeds.

In fact, he even mentioned, “We enjoy family and we enjoy community.” But while her father’s spiritual guidance was there to support young Dalilah, who supported her in the more mundane things in life? Well, that credit can be given to her mother.

Who is Dalilah Muhammad’s mother?

So, who is the lady who made Dalilah into the strong woman she is today? Well, as it so happens, that is none other than Nadirah Muhammad, her mother. In fact, her work as a child protective specialist has made her a local guardian. But that’s not all. So popular was Dalilah in her hometown that when she won the 400m hurdles back in Rio, one could only imagine the level of cheers that erupted in Rochdale Village. They even threw Dalilah a parade once she was back in the States.

All of this is due to Nadirah, who has been a rock to Dalilah. But that’s not where it ends. Why? Well, because Nadirah is also a member of the AFSCME District Council 37. But what exactly is it? Well, in easy words, it is the largest public employee union in NYC. But while to the world outside, she might be a warrior, at her home, she isn’t much different.

From a tender age, she made sure to instill discipline and moral values in Dalilah and her siblings. But while she might’ve been a tough mother, she was also one to nurture her kids. And like any mother, Nadirah has been a support system for her daughter’s personal and professional life and the family.

What is Dalilah’s parents’ nationality?

Dalilah’s parents, Askia and Nadirah Muhammad, have U.S. citizenship and hence American nationality. Now, Dalilah Muhammad is going to kick off in the Grand Slam Track; it is to be seen how she will perform there.