What it is about
With only a few days left in the Paris Paralympics, Israel has added to its medal count with remarkable performances in both tennis and goalball, bringing its total to nine medals so far.
Why it matters
These achievements underscore Israel’s growing prowess in Paralympic sports, demonstrating resilience and excellence amid ongoing regional tensions. The athletes not only embody the spirit of competition but also serve as ambassadors of goodwill.
Key Highlights
The women’s goalball team won a silver medal after an intense final against Turkey. Despite a tough 3-8 loss, this medal marked Israel’s first-ever in goalball and the first Paralympic team sport medal since 1988. The squad, featuring athletes like Lihi Ben David who played with a broken finger, overcame considerable challenges to reach the finals. Their unity was emblematic, as they wore yellow ribbons in solidarity with hostages held in Gaza.
In tennis, Guy Sasson clinched a bronze medal after defeating Turkey’s Ahmet Kaplan in a grueling matchup. Despite losing the first set, Sasson made a powerful comeback to secure the medal, wrapping himself proudly in the Israeli flag afterwards. His dedication and emotional connection to victims of regional conflicts were evident as he shared the personal motivations behind his drive for victory.
Beyond the Medals
Competitive shooter Yulia Chernoy achieved a fifth-place finish in the mixed 50m rifle prone competition. She made it to the finals and expressed her determination for future games. Despite a disappointing result for handcyclist Amit Hasdai, he remains optimistic about future competitions, showcasing the spirit of perseverance that defines Israel’s Paralympians.
Looking Ahead
The Israeli contingent’s success isn’t over yet. Canientes like Irina Shafir and Talia Eilat are set to compete, along with high expectations for swimmers such as Ami Dadaon and the Malyar brothers in upcoming races, promising more milestones and triumphs for the nation.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.