Israeli Noga Reshef Wins U21 World Jiu-Jitsu Championship in Abu Dhabi

The Israeli national team began the U21 World Jiu-Jitsu Championship in Abu Dhabi with notable successes on August 2, 2026. Noga Reshef, the reigning European champion, secured the gold medal in the under-63 kg weight category after a closely contested final against a local Emirati star, winning by a golden score sweep. The Israeli national anthem was played in the Abu Dhabi arena following her victory.

Yoav Solomon also earned a bronze medal in the under-56 kg category by defeating a competitor from Singapore in the bronze medal match. The Israeli team achieved additional successes on the first day of competition.

Israeli Ambassador to the UAE, Yossi Shelly, accompanied the team throughout the day, standing alongside the athletes and coaching staff. He personally presented the medals to the Israeli winners on the podium.

Coach Amir Boaron praised the team's strong start in a highly competitive event featuring some of the world's top athletes. He highlighted Reshef's performance and Solomon's solid competition, expressing optimism for the remainder of the championship. Boaron also thanked the Israeli Jiu-Jitsu Association leadership and the ambassador for their support.

The U16 Jiu-Jitsu competitions will begin the following day, where the Israeli team aims to continue their successful start. The sport operates in Israel under the "Eilat" federation, which governs non-Olympic sports.