How can the Hadith: "He who comes early and is among the first... and gets close to the Imam" be applied in the Masjid al-Haram, given the difficulty of getting close to the Imam?

Proximity to the Imam in the Sacred Mosque (Masjid al-Haram) in Makkah is attainable by praying in the courtyard of the Haram where the Imam leads the prayer. If the questioner is unable to get close due to crowds, then he should get as close as he can. Allah does not burden a soul beyond its capacity. He will be rewarded for his intention to be close, for the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said: "If a servant falls ill or travels, what he used to do when he was healthy and at home will be recorded for him." This includes one who was performing an act of worship but was prevented from it, and his intention was to persevere in it.