Former Footballer Itzik Zohar Denies Shooting Rumors, Reflects on Impact

Former Israeli football star Itzik Zohar addressed recent false rumors claiming he was shot at his home. The rumors began circulating on June 27, 2026, causing distress to Zohar and his family. In an interview with Sport 5 on June 28, Zohar explained he was at an event when the messages started arriving, initially ignoring them. However, the persistent WhatsApp messages and a call to a friend from his father, who insisted the source was reliable, highlighted how quickly unverified rumors spread.

Zohar criticized the public's eagerness to believe and share unconfirmed news, noting a lack of compassion and disregard for the impact on children and families. He joked about having "dinosaur skin" to withstand such attacks but acknowledged the trauma it caused his family, especially his children. Zohar also mentioned that the rumor was implausible since it claimed the shooting happened in his yard, which he does not have.

He recounted that Eli Senior was the first to warn him about the impending rumor, which Zohar found absurd but accepted as part of his past reputation. He reflected on how his previous lifestyle has made him a target for any negative story, even joking that if a former player stole an F35 jet, people would blame him. Despite the personal toll, Zohar said no one takes responsibility for spreading such rumors, and legal action is not feasible.

The incident underscores the challenges public figures face with misinformation and the emotional consequences for their families.