What it is about
In the wake of 21 Jewish athletes securing 18 medals at the Olympics, 15 Jewish and Israeli Paralympians triumphed with 13 medals at the 2024 Paris Paralympics. Israel achieved a significant milestone by earning 10 medals—its first double-digit count since 2004.
Why it matters
This remarkable achievement not only showcases the athletic excellence of Jewish and Israeli athletes but also serves as a beacon of hope and resilience amid the turmoil and challenges faced back home.
Gold Medalists
Ami Dadaon
Israeli swimmer Ami Dadaon led the medal tally with four medals, including two gold in the men’s 100-meter freestyle S4 and 200-meter freestyle S4, while setting a new Paralympic record for the 100-meter event during the heats.
Ezra Frech
US track and field star Ezra Frech clinched two gold medals in the men’s 100-meter T63 and high jump T63 events, establishing himself as a dominant force and raising aspirations for the 2028 Games in Los Angeles.
Moran Samuel
Israeli rower Moran Samuel won her first career Paralympic gold in the PR1 women’s single sculls, dedicating her victory to the resilience of the Israeli people.
Asaf Yasur
Martial artist Asaf Yasur earned a gold medal in the men’s 58-kilogram K44 taekwondo, marking a successful debut at the Paralympics for the two-time world champion.
Silver Medalists
Israel’s Women’s Goalball Team
In a historic achievement, Israel’s women’s goalball team secured a silver medal, their first team sport medal since 1988, embodying solidarity and national pride.
Bronze Medalists
Mark Malyar
Swimmer Mark Malyar earned his fourth Paralympic medal with a bronze in the men’s 100-meter backstroke S8, adding to his impressive record from Tokyo.
Shahar Milfedler & Saleh Shahin
Israeli rowers Shahar Milfedler and Saleh Shahin captured their first Paralympic medals with a bronze in the PR2 mixed double sculls, dedicating their victory to the strength and resilience of Israelis during tough times.
Guy Sasson
Wheelchair tennis player Guy Sasson celebrated a bronze in the quad singles tournament, continuing his groundbreaking year after a Grand Slam win at the French Open.
Ian Seidenfeld
American table tennis star Ian Seidenfeld secured a bronze in the men’s singles MS6 competition, adding to his previous gold from Tokyo.
This story was first published on jpost.com.