Israeli gymnast, national team win gold medals at European Championships

Israeli rhythmic gymnast Daria Atamanov won a gold medal at the 2022 European Championships, held in Tel Aviv on Saturday.

Later in the day, Israel’s rhythmic gymnastics team took the gold in the group all-around category, with a total score of 69.950. The team narrowly defeated Italy’s team, which finished with 69.650. Azerbaijan came third with 65.400.

The 16-year-old Atamanov defeated her Bulgarian competitor Boryana Kaleyn to take home the all-around title, with a total score of 136.900.

The category included performances using hoops, clubs, ribbons, and balls.

“I’m in a bit of shock. It’s exciting, it’s fun,” Atamanov told reporters after the win.

Asked about reaching the podium, she said: “You don’t think about it during the competition. You just think about each exercise individually, and then when you finish everything you think about it.”

She does it!
Daria Atamanov is the 2022 European all-around Champion!#ECtlv2022 pic.twitter.com/WUD3M1pH4W

— European Gymnastics (@UEGymnastics) June 18, 2022

Rhythmic gymnastics is one of Israel’s stronger sports.

Atamanov has won several medals in recent years, and is seen as a potential successor to Linoy Ashram, who recently retired after bringing home a gold medal from the Tokyo Olympics last year.

The 2022 Group all-around Champions are… Israel! ????????????????
Congratulations! ????#ECtlv2022 #rhythmic #gymnastics pic.twitter.com/SrPA5siKMt

— European Gymnastics (@UEGymnastics) June 18, 2022