Israeli Olympic Judoka Arik Za'abi and Daughter Noam Discuss Her Athletic and Modeling Journey
In a modest cafeteria at the Tel Aviv Velodrome, two generations of the Za'abi family met for a candid conversation about sports and family. Arik Za'abi, an Olympic medalist and European judo champion, sat with his 17-year-old daughter Noam, who transitioned from a promising gymnastics career to athletics, quickly becoming one of Israel's top young talents in hurdles and heptathlon.
Noam, who trains with Maccabi Tel Aviv and will soon enter 11th grade at Yitzhak Shamir High School, shared how her early exposure to gymnastics, influenced by her grandmother who was a renowned gymnast, led her to fall in love with the sport. However, after years of intense training and a serious injury, she switched to athletics, where she has excelled in hurdles, winning the Israeli youth championship and placing third in the senior national championship.
Arik revealed he initially hesitated about her gymnastics path but supported her transition to athletics after tests showed her natural talent in jumping events. Noam aspires to qualify for the European U20 Championships and dreams of competing in the 2032 Brisbane Olympics, following in her father's footsteps who began his Olympic career in Sydney.
Alongside her athletic pursuits, Noam is building a modeling career, represented by ITM agency, balancing both worlds with her family's support. Arik emphasized the importance of prioritizing sports while offering guidance on managing modeling opportunities. He also highlighted the values sports instilled in his children, such as discipline and resilience, regardless of their future choices.
Noam expressed pride in her father's legacy but stressed her desire to be recognized for her own achievements. Arik praised her maturity and dedication, noting her exceptional rhythm and precision, crucial for hurdling. The interview concluded with reflections on their close bond, shared love for sports, and mutual respect for each other's journeys.