Ukrainian Paralympic Swimmer Flees War, Competes at Maccabiah Games in Israel

The 22nd Maccabiah Games opened yesterday at Teddy Stadium in Jerusalem, featuring thousands of athletes from 45 countries competing in 45 sports. Among the 600 swimmers at Wingate Institute’s pool is Yaroslav Semenenko, a 38-year-old Ukrainian Paralympic athlete with a remarkable personal story. Born without arms, Semenenko has won multiple medals, including bronze in the 100m backstroke at Rio 2016 and a team bronze in the 4x100m freestyle relay at Paris 2024. He estimates he left behind dozens of medals in Ukraine when he fled to Finland due to the ongoing war with Russia, unable to retrieve them from the Russian-occupied area.

Semenenko, who lost his mother at age 12 and began swimming seven years later, credits the sport with strengthening both his body and spirit. Now married with a child, he emphasizes resilience despite facing disrespect and challenges due to his disability. He and his wife left Ukraine early in the war to protect their young child, and have lived in Finland for over four years. The conflict has deeply affected him, with two brothers killed and many friends lost, and family members still critically ill in Ukraine.

Regarding Israel, Semenenko regards it as a holy land and believes it is a strong nation capable of overcoming adversity. Initially apprehensive about coming, he now holds great respect for the Maccabiah Games and the country. He expressed pride in competing in this significant international event, viewing sport as a vital part of his life and livelihood.

The Maccabiah Games continue to showcase diverse athletes overcoming personal and geopolitical challenges, with Semenenko’s story highlighting the intersection of sport, war, and hope.