MLS Broadcaster Sami Sadovnik Praises Israeli Players and Maccabi Tel Aviv
Peruvian-Jewish broadcaster Sami Sadovnik discussed his viral use of Hebrew during an MLS broadcast, praising Israeli players and Maccabi Tel Aviv.
The Peruvian-Jewish broadcaster and MLS voice on Apple TV, Sami Sadovnik, recently sparked warm reactions across social media after using the Hebrew phrase "kol hakavod" (well done) during a live broadcast following a goal by Israeli winger Liel Abada.
In an exclusive interview, Sadovnik reflected on his deep connection to Israel and Jewish culture, his impressions of Israeli football culture, and the booming success of Israeli players across North America's Major League Soccer.
Connection to Israel and Football Impressions
Born in Peru and raised within the local Jewish community in Lima, Sadovnik moved to Miami nearly thirty years ago. Throughout his career, he has covered major sporting events, including the FIFA World Cup, and currently broadcasts MLS matches.
During visits to Israel, Sadovnik has regularly attended Premier League matches, visiting stadiums in Haifa, Netanya, and Tel Aviv.
«I am not a fan of any specific team in Israel, but you could say I have visited Maccabi Tel Aviv matches more than any other and that it can be described as the Israeli version of Real Madrid,» Sadovnik noted.
He praised the modern atmosphere at Bloomfield Stadium, as well as the passion of Israeli fans, which he compared to the vibrant football culture in South America.
The Israeli Wave in MLS
Sadovnik highlighted the impressive adaptation of Israeli players in North America, including Liel Abada, Tai Baribo, Dor Turgeman, Taye Abed, and others.
He attributes this smooth transition to capable agents, well-structured club management, and a league environment that suits talented international prospects.
Recalling the viral moment when he used Hebrew on air, Sadovnik explained that he carefully rehearsed the phrase beforehand with native speakers from Israel, ensuring precise pronunciation to celebrate the achievements of Israeli athletes abroad.
