Israeli Athlete Maya Bechar Wins Silver at World Jiu-Jitsu Championship in Abu Dhabi

The Israeli national team began the adult competition phase at the World Jiu-Jitsu Championship in Abu Dhabi with a remarkable silver medal win by Maya Bechar in her debut at the highest level of the sport. The final match against the reigning Abu Dhabi world champion was closely contested until the final seconds, captivating the audience who gave a standing ovation to both competitors for their high-level performance.

Alongside Bechar, Noga Reshef finished fifth in the under-63 kg weight category, and Maya Day placed fifth in the under-52 kg division. Additionally, Mark Lipetz, Omri Haviv, and Meitar Rosenfeld all reached the semifinals in their respective weight classes (under 56, 62, 69, and 77 kg) but finished fifth after tough battles against the world’s top jiu-jitsu athletes. The competition will continue with heavier weight categories competing on the final day.

Erez Elroi, president of the Israeli Jiu-Jitsu Federation, praised Bechar’s impressive transition to the adult category and her strategic performance in the final against an experienced and decorated opponent. He also commended the entire team for their high level of skill and determination, attributing the success to sustained professional training and the dedicated coaching staff.

Eric Kaplan, president and CEO of "Eilat" Federation, the umbrella organization for non-Olympic sports in Israel, hailed the silver medal as a significant honor for Israeli sports. He expressed optimism for future gold medals and pledged continued support for the federation and athletes to proudly represent Israel on the global stage.