Inbar Lanir says surgery will keep her off the mat for months as LA 2028 qualifying begins

Israeli judoka Inbar Lanir said in an interview after surgery that she will be away from competition for the coming months, as the Olympic qualification cycle for Los Angeles 2028 has just begun. The piece was published by Sport 5 on June 17, 2026, at 10:48, and includes a photo credit to Sport 5 and the IJF.

The interview focuses on the injury that sidelined Lanir and how its timing intersects with the start of the Olympic road to 2028. The questions note that injuries are part of an athlete’s path and can affect timing, and ask whether there is any comfort in having the setback occur at the very beginning of the qualification period.

Lanir, whose responses are not quoted in full in the article text provided, is described as reflecting on the last few months since the injury and on the challenges she has faced before this surgery. The interview also explores how she approaches the operation and the rehabilitation period after a career that has already included multiple injuries and other obstacles.

The headline quote, “I am learning how strong I am and how much I am capable of,” frames the conversation. Another quoted line from the teaser says she “trusts myself with my eyes closed,” underscoring her confidence as she begins recovery and will miss the mat for months.