Miki Berkovich Faces Complex Health Challenges After Illness Emerges
Translated & summarized from Ynet by baba
Miki Berkovich, legendary Israeli basketball player, has been dealing with a serious health condition for over two years, receiving support from family and friends while maintaining a low public profile. He was last seen publicly in 2024 when awarded the Israel Prize.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Miki Berkovich has faced a complex medical condition for two and a half years.
- He is supported by his wife Shelly, former teammates, and Maccabi Tel Aviv.
- Berkovich was honored with the Israel Prize in 2024.
- He played a key role in Maccabi Tel Aviv's 1977 European Cup win and Israel's 1979 European Championship success.
- Maccabi Tel Aviv chairman Shimon Mizrahi praised his athletic legacy and recent Hall of Fame induction.
- Berkovich's family has declined to comment on his health status.
Miki Berkovich, one of Israel's greatest basketball players and an enduring symbol of Maccabi Tel Aviv, has been battling a complex medical condition for the past two and a half years. The 72-year-old, who has kept a low public profile recently, has been supported by his wife Shelly Berkovich, close friends including former stars Tal Brody and Moti Aroesti, and the Maccabi Tel Aviv organization. Berkovich's last notable public appearance was in 2024 when he received the Israel Prize.
Born in 1954 in Kfar Saba, Berkovich joined Maccabi Tel Aviv's youth team at age 11 and debuted with the senior team at 17. He became a leading figure in Israeli basketball, playing a key role in Maccabi Tel Aviv's historic 1977 European Cup victory and helping the national team secure second place in the 1979 European Championship.
Maccabi Tel Aviv chairman Shimon Mizrahi praised Berkovich as an exemplary athlete and winner, recalling a memorable birthday game against CSKA Moscow. Mizrahi expressed sorrow upon learning about Berkovich's illness signs two years ago, which were not outwardly visible. Mizrahi also recently honored Berkovich's son by presenting him with a jersey as Berkovich was inducted into the Basketball Association Hall of Fame.
Berkovich's family has chosen not to comment on his health situation. Despite his challenges, Berkovich remains a revered figure in Israeli sports and continues to receive heartfelt support from the basketball community.
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