Olympic Taekwondo Medalist Avishag Semberg Retires at 25
Translated & summarized from Ynet by baba
Israeli Olympic taekwondo medalist Avishag Semberg, 25, has announced her retirement from the sport. Citing a diminished passion and a desire for a new life chapter, Semberg is stepping away after a decorated career including an Olympic bronze. She acknowledged the significant personal sacrifices and strict lifestyle required by the sport, and is now exploring new ventures like public speaking and business studies.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Avishag Semberg, 25, has retired from her Olympic taekwondo career.
- She cited a loss of passion and readiness for a new life chapter.
- Semberg is a Tokyo Olympics bronze medalist and competed in three Games.
- Her demanding career involved significant personal sacrifices and strict lifestyle.
- She plans to pursue public speaking and business administration studies.
Avishag Semberg, the 25-year-old Olympic bronze medalist from Tokyo, has announced her retirement from taekwondo, ending her professional career in the sport. Semberg, who has dedicated her life to taekwondo since childhood, stated in an interview that she is a "all or nothing" person and does not wish to continue in the sport casually. She explained that the "fire" that once fueled her passion has diminished, and she feels a sense of completeness with her journey, ready to move on to the next chapter of her life, though she is unsure what that will entail.
Semberg's decision comes after months of speculation, amplified by her participation in the reality TV show "Dancing with the Stars." She revealed that the loss in Paris was a particularly difficult period, leading to sleepless nights filled with thoughts about the competition. She officially informed her husband, Nimrod Krivitzki, of her decision recently, noting that he and her mother were likely relieved due to the significant personal sacrifices and emotional toll her demanding career took on them.
Reflecting on her career, Semberg expressed no regrets about the prices she paid, calling it an incredible experience where she fulfilled her dreams. However, she acknowledged the immense wear and tear involved. Having achieved an Olympic medal, competed in three Olympics, and won European championships, she recognized that athletic careers are not eternal. The decision was difficult, but she feels at peace with it.
Semberg also discussed the strict lifestyle required for taekwondo, including rigorous weight management from a young age. She described the challenges of missing family events and social gatherings due to dietary restrictions and training schedules. Now, as a "released soldier" of sorts, she is exploring new paths, including giving lectures and studying business administration, while enjoying the newfound freedom to experience everyday life and discover her identity beyond taekwondo.
