Nimrod Ryeder wins second jiu-jitsu gold for Israel at World Games

Israel’s flag flew high once again at the World Games on Monday as Nimrod Ryeder captured gold in the men’s under-77kg jiu-jitsu final, defeating the UAE’s Mahdi Alawlaki by submission. The victory marks Ryeder’s second consecutive World Games title, following his 2022 triumph in Birmingham.

Competing under the guidance of personal and national team coach Amir Buaron and assistant coach Tomer Elroy, Ryeder delivered an impeccable performance throughout the tournament. A multiple-time European and world champion, he reaffirmed his status as one of the sport’s dominant forces.

“I’m just an athlete the real champions are the soldiers protecting our home,” Ryeder said after the win. He added that the match itself wasn’t particularly difficult but carried personal significance as “revenge” for a 2023 loss in Mongolia. “I can’t believe I did it again,” he said with a smile.

Israel delegation head and Ayelet Federation president Arik Kaplan praised Ryeder’s achievement. “He’s a world-class athlete not only a multiple-time European and world champion, but now a two-time World Games gold medalist. This is a great source of pride for Israel, and we will continue striving for more top-level achievements in non-Olympic sports.”

The 12th World Games, held in Chengdu, China, from August 7 to 17, feature 34 sports, 60 disciplines, and 256 medal events. Israel’s delegation has already earned seven medals at this year’s event: two golds, two silvers, and three bronzes.

Ryeder’s victory is not just a personal milestone it’s another reminder of Israel’s growing presence in global sport, where dedication, discipline, and national pride go hand in hand.

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