From the Liveblog of
Saturday, July 27, 2024
Two Israeli judokas set to begin their first matches at the Paris Olympics
Two Israeli judokas will shortly begin their first matches at the Paris Olympics this morning, in the country’s most-decorated Olympic sport.
Shira Rishony – at her third Olympics – will compete against Kazakhstan’s Abiba Abuzhakynova, while newcomer Yam Wolczak is fighting Arnold Kisoka from the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Israel’s delegation consists of 12 Israeli judokas vying for medals, with a number of them heavy favorites.
Israel qualified female judokas in all 7 weight classes (something only Japan and Italy also managed) and male judokas in 5 weight classes.
Several of the women are considered strong contenders for medals, and while the male delegation contains many well-known, experienced athletes, they are not internationally ranked.
Israeli athletes will also be competing in swimming, artistic gymnastics and badminton events today, while the country’s soccer team is set to play Paraguay this evening.
Amy Spiro contributed to this report.
