The Israeli national anthem, “Hatikva,” was played in the Japanese capital as 27-year-old judoka Sagi Muki stood on the podium.
By United With Israel Staff
For the first time, an Israeli male judoka has won a gold medal at the Judo World Championship. It happened on Wednesday in Tokyo.
The Israeli national anthem, “Hatikva,” was played in the Japanese capital as 27-year-old judoka Sagi Muki stood on the podium after he was given the gold medal for winning in the under-81 kg weight category. He defeated Belgian opponent Matthias Casse in the final.
It was Muki’s first medal of any sort at a World Championship. He had taken the gold at the European Championship twice, in 2015 and 2018.
In the quarter-final, he defeated Egyptian Mohamed Abdelaal, who refused to shake Muki’s hand after having lost the match to the Israeli judoka.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu tweeted: “You have brought much pride and respect to all of us.” He also posted a video conversation with the new world champion, during which he invited Muki to visit the Prime MInister’s Office in Jerusalem and bring the medal with him.
Do You Love Israel? Make a Donation - Show Your Support!
Donate to vital charities that help protect Israeli citizens and inspire millions around the world to support Israel too!
Now more than ever, Israel needs your help to fight and win the war -- including on the battlefield of public opinion.
Antisemitism, anti-Israel bias and boycotts are out of control. Israel's enemies are inciting terror and violence against innocent Israelis and Jews around the world. Help us fight back!