Israeli Judoka Raz Hershko Aims to Defend Gold at Lima Grand Prix

The Lima Grand Prix judo competition reaches its final day on Sunday with heavyweight categories in focus. Israel's Raz Hershko, competing in the over 78 kg division, will attempt to defend the gold medal she won last year. Currently ranked number one in the world, Hershko will start directly in the quarterfinals, facing the winner of a match between a Brazilian and a Canadian competitor. A potential later opponent is Brazilian Beatriz Souza, who defeated Hershko in the gold medal match at the recent Paris Olympics. A special exhibition match is also planned in Brazil later this month.

Other Israeli judokas have already been eliminated from the tournament. Ariel Shulman (up to 60 kg) was knocked out in the second round by a Brazilian opponent after entering in the second round. Omer Man (up to 66 kg) lost in the first round to an American competitor, while Yam Volchek (up to 66 kg) was eliminated in the second round by a Moldovan judoka. Gaia Bar-Or (up to 70 kg) was defeated in the first round by German competitor Pola, who went on to win the gold medal.

The competition highlights Israel's strong presence in international judo, with Hershko as the leading contender to secure another gold medal for the country at the Lima Grand Prix.