Israel Wins Three Medals at Pickleball World Cup

A new chapter in Israeli sports history has just been written not on the soccer field or in the judo arena, but on a pickleball court in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. In its first-ever appearance at the Pickleball World Cup, Team Israel delivered a performance that turned heads and captured hearts, bringing home three medals and making a bold statement on the global stage.

Among 68 nations and over 3,500 athletes, Israel’s squad played with remarkable unity, defeating powerhouse teams and even besting reigning champion Puerto Rico in a dramatic team event that became one of the tournament’s most talked-about moments. National coach David Abel summed it up: “This was one of the Cinderella stories of the tournament... the way they played – with passion, unity, and pride – was simply electrifying.”

Israel’s medal tally included one gold and two silvers. Adam Bachmann made history with Israel’s first-ever pickleball medal a silver in the Over-35 Men’s Singles division. Shortly after, Yaniv Semo and Adi Berman added a second silver in the Under-35 Mixed Doubles. Then came a golden moment: Adi Berman returned to the court to claim Israel’s first international gold in the Over-35 Women’s Singles, sealing an unforgettable debut.

The Over-50 team also showcased skill and determination, advancing undefeated into the quarterfinals before falling to eventual champions Team USA. And while Israel narrowly missed advancing in the team standings due to point differentials, their thrilling seven-game win over Puerto Rico earned international respect.

Pickleball, a fast-paced blend of tennis, ping pong, and badminton, has become the fastest-growing sport in the United States and is rapidly expanding worldwide. At home in Israel, it's still in its early stages, but the momentum is clear. Courts are popping up, tournaments are gaining traction, and after this performance, interest is sure to surge.

“This was an unforgettable debut filled with passion, sportsmanship, and pride,” the Israeli delegation shared. “We return home with medals, memories, and the motivation to keep growing the game.”

With the pickleball world now taking notice and Israel’s athletes proving they belong among the best, this debut may be just the beginning. As Israel steps into yet another global arena, it does so with the same spirit it brings to every challenge: strength, unity, and the drive to succeed.

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