Bronze for Nimrod Ryder: A Successful World Jiu-Jitsu Championship for Israel
Ryder won bronze in the adult category up to 85 kg, concluding an impressive performance by the Israeli delegation in Abu Dhabi, marked by medals across all age groups.
The Israeli national team concludes a successful performance at the World Jiu-Jitsu Championship in Abu Dhabi. On the final day of competition, Nimrod Ryder joined the list of winners, securing a bronze medal in the adult category up to 85 kg.
Ryder, a double gold medalist from the "World Games" and one of the top jiu-jitsu athletes in Israel and globally, added another medal to his impressive collection. This achievement capped off a championship where the team recorded successes across all age groups: under 16, under 18, under 21, and adults.
In the adult category, 20-year-old Maya Behar won silver in her first appearance at the World Adult Championship, following a close final match against the world champion from the UAE. Saar Shemesh and Roi Dagan reached the bronze medal matches but finished in fifth place in the heavyweight categories. Earlier, Noga Reshef, Maya Dai, Mark Lipetz, Omri Habib, and Meitar Rosenfeld also recorded strong performances, finishing in fifth place.
In youth competitions, the victories of Noga Reshef and Lia Shalev in the Gi division stood out. In the No-Gi division, the cadet and youth teams achieved numerous impressive results. Among the prominent winners: Guy Torres, crowned world champion under 18; Eden Gamliel and Shalev Shanir, who won silver medals; and Tamir Naim, who secured a bronze medal.
Israel's Ambassador to the UAE, Yossi Shelley, accompanied the team throughout much of the championship, attending matches to encourage the athletes and staff. The ambassador also participated in the award ceremonies, presenting medals to the Israeli athletes.
Erez Alroy, President of the Israel Jiu-Jitsu Association, stated:
"We are finishing a very successful World Championship, with achievements in all age groups and an important bronze medal from Nimrod in the adult competition. The results reflect the professional work, preparation, and commitment of the athletes and the coaching staff. I thank the professional staff, the "Ilan" Association for their support, and the Israeli Ambassador, Mr. Yossi Shelley, for his warm encouragement of the team."
Arik Kaplan, President and CEO of the "Ilan" Association, added:
"The Israeli national team showed impressive depth in Abu Dhabi, from the future generation to the adult elite. The medals and Israeli presence on the podium are a source of great pride. The "Ilan" Association will continue to support and develop jiu-jitsu in Israel, ensuring our athletes can compete and succeed at the highest levels in the world."
