Israel Women's Lacrosse Team Wins Historic Bronze at World Championship in Tokyo

The Israeli women's lacrosse team achieved a historic milestone by winning the bronze medal at the World Championship held in Tokyo on August 2, 2026. They defeated the Haudenosaunee team 7-4 in the third-place match, marking Israel's first-ever medal in women's field lacrosse at the world level. Israel started strong, leading 3-0 after the first quarter and extending their advantage to 6-1 by halftime. Although Haudenosaunee narrowed the gap in the second half, Israel maintained their lead to secure the podium finish.

Jordin Lipkin was named the game's MVP and finished the tournament as the top scorer with 19 goals and the leader in points with 25, including six assists. Lipkin expressed pride in representing Israel and making history, highlighting the significance of her Jewish identity and the team's unity. The achievement gains added importance as lacrosse returns to the Olympic program for the 2028 Los Angeles Games, where the Sixes format will be used.

Israel completed the group stage undefeated, upset strong Australia 12-11 in a dramatic quarterfinal, and lost 19-7 to the top-ranked United States in the semifinals. Notably, Israel and Ireland were the only teams to score in every quarter against the U.S., with the second quarter ending in a 2-2 tie, the first time since 2009 that the U.S. did not win a quarter at the World Championship. This bronze medal follows Israel's recent victory at the European Box Lacrosse Championship, marking an unprecedented year for Israeli lacrosse.

Ian Kadish, CEO of the Israeli Lacrosse Association, praised the players for their historic achievement and dedication, calling it a monumental moment for Israeli lacrosse. Eric Kaplan, president and CEO of "Eilat," the umbrella organization for non-Olympic sports, emphasized the team's world-class performance and the boost this success provides ahead of lacrosse's Olympic debut in 2028, opening new opportunities for the sport in Israel.