Israel Sets Sights on Olympic Glory with 88 Athletes in Paris

This week, Israel embarks on its journey at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, with a delegation of 88 athletes eager to replicate the success of the Tokyo 2020 Games. In Tokyo, held in 2021 due to the pandemic, Israel secured four medals: two gold and two bronze.

In this year's Olympics, the Israeli team consists of 54 men and 34 women competing in 16 sports. The men's soccer team, competing for the first time since the 1976 Montreal Games, features standout players like Oscar Gloukh, Omri Gandelman, Liel Abada, and Dor Turgeman, aiming to secure a medal in one of the premier events.

Artem Dolgopyat, who clinched gold in Tokyo, remains a top contender in the All-Around Gymnastics. At the 2023 Artistic Gymnastics World Championships in Belgium, Dolgopyat won the floor exercise gold despite receiving news of an attack on Israel by Hamas on the same day. Displaying remarkable resilience, he honored the Israeli victims by wearing black ribbons during his performance.

The judo team, a significant part of Israel's Olympic history, includes strong contenders like Raz Hershko and Inbar Lanir. Hershko, competing in the +78kg category, dedicated her European Championship victory to Yonatan Goutin, a victim of Hamas terrorism. Lanir, competing in the -78kg category, has consistently been on the podium in major competitions.

Peter Paltchik and former world champion Sagi Muki are also expected to shine in their respective judo categories. Taekwondo athlete Avishag Semberg aims to build on her bronze medal from Tokyo, entering the Paris Games with impressive victories in recent competitions.

In swimming, Anastasia Gorbenko, who garnered multiple medals at the European Championships, leads Israel's hopes in the pool, alongside Andi Murez in the Mixed 4x100 Meter Medley Relay. Sailing sensation Sharon Kantor, coached by former medalist Shachar Tzuberi, is another strong medal prospect, having won gold at the World Championships.

While Linoy Ashram has retired from Rhythmic Gymnastics, her legacy continues through a top-ranked team poised for success in the Women's Team All-Around Group event. The team comprises Ofir Shaham, Romi Paritzki, Shani Bakanov, Adar Freidmann, and Diana Svertsov.

Fencer Yuval Freilich, an Orthodox Jew from Gush Etzion, competes in his first Olympics in the Men’s Epee. Ranking 8th globally, Freilich won gold at a Grand Prix event in Qatar, proudly representing Israel.

Track and field athletes, including marathon runners Lonah Chemtai Salpeter and Maru Teferi, and rising star Blessing Afrifah in the 200-meter event, are set to showcase their talents in Paris.

As these athletes take center stage, they embody the spirit and determination of Israel, aiming to bring glory and pride to their nation. Let’s cheer for our athletes and celebrate their journey. Share this inspiring story and subscribe to our newsletter for more updates on Israel and its vibrant communities.