Israel's Judo Team Competes in World Championships Amid National Grief

The Israeli national judo team is set to begin its most significant professional event of the year, the World Championships, taking place in Baku, Azerbaijan. The tournament features 622 judokas from 93 countries, with Israel sending 11 representatives. The seven-day event occurs during a period of profound national mourning for Israel, and the athletes are focused on representing their country with honor.

Israel will not participate in the team competition, scheduled for the final day of the championships. This decision was made for professional reasons and due to an injury to Yuli Alma Mishiner (78+ kg), who was expected to be a key member of the squad. Mishiner's knee injury prevents her from competing.

Yitzhak Aspiz (up to 60 kg) will be the first Israeli to compete, opening the championships for the team. Aspiz is currently ranked second in the world in his weight class and is considered a favorite to reach the podium in his senior debut at the World Championships. Raz Hershko (78+ kg) holds the world number one ranking in the open weight category and is also a strong medal contender, consistently earning medals in global tour events.

The full Israeli contingent includes Gefen Primo (up to 52 kg), Tamar Nelson Levy (up to 57 kg), Inbal Shemesh (up to 57 kg), Yitzhak Aspiz (up to 60 kg), Karem Primo (up to 63 kg), Maya Goshen (up to 70 kg), Ohad Morits (up to 73 kg), Yonatan Elbaz (up to 73 kg), Raz Hershko (78+ kg), Roy Sivan (up to 90 kg), and Yosef Simin (up to 100 kg). The competition schedule for the Israeli team begins on October 4th with Yitzhak Aspiz and concludes on October 10th with Raz Hershko.