Yuli Fineberg Wins Bronze at Lausanne Grand Slam, Securing Israel's Second Medal

Israeli judoka Yuli Fineberg secured a bronze medal at the Lausanne Grand Slam in Switzerland on Sunday, marking Israel's second medal of the competition. This follows Gili Cohen's gold medal win on the first day of the tournament. Fineberg, competing in the over 78 kg weight class, began her day with a penalty-based victory over Uzbekistan's Iraskhon Kurbanbaeva. She then advanced to the quarterfinals with an ippon win against Russia's Maria Ivanova, but was defeated in the semifinals by France's Lea Fontaine.

Following her semifinal loss, Fineberg entered the bronze medal match against Karen Leon of Venezuela. A "waza-ari" advantage midway through the bout was enough for the Israeli judoka to claim the bronze. Head coach of the national team, Shani Hershko, congratulated Fineberg on her victory, noting it was another Grand Slam medal for her and highlighted her wins against previously challenging opponents.

Hershko emphasized that this achievement is another success for the national team's younger generation, who are "continuing to advance and prove themselves." He added that the collaborative work between male and female, and junior and experienced athletes creates an environment that "enriches, strengthens, and advances everyone." He concluded by commending Fineberg, congratulating the team, and thanking the Judo Association and its head, Moshe Ponti, for their support and shared vision.