Israeli judoka Raz Hershko recently made headlines for her remarkable performance at the World Judo Championships in Baku, Azerbaijan. Despite facing significant challenges earlier in the year, where geopolitical tensions barred her from competing in pivotal events, Hershko’s latest achievement highlights her resilience and determination as one of Israel’s premier athletes.
A Rising Star: Hershko’s Journey
At just 28 years old, Raz Hershko is already established as one of the top competitors in judo. Earlier in 2025, she faced a difficult situation when a conflict between Israel and Iran led to the closure of Israeli airspace, halting her journey to an important tournament in Budapest. Additionally, she withdrew from participating in the Tashkent Grand Slam following directives from the Shin Bet, compelling the Israeli team to exit Uzbekistan. These interruptions could have easily sidelined lesser athletes, but Hershko’s resolve prevailed.
This weekend, she secured a bronze medal at the World Judo Championships, solidifying her status on the global stage once more. Her poignant tears of joy reflected her triumph, emphasizing the emotional weight of her win.
A Tribute Through Victory
Hershko’s victory is not solely a personal achievement; she dedicated her win to the memory of Yonatan Gutin, an Israeli soldier who lost his life during the October 7th attacks. Gutin was not only a defender but also a passionate judo enthusiast who had trained in the sport for approximately 14 years, even coaching during his military service. For Hershko, representing her nation is increasingly meaningful in light of current events.
“I’ve always felt a deep sense of pride representing Israel,” she shared with JTA. “But right now, that pride feels amplified. I step onto the mat alone, yet I carry the hopes of an entire nation with me.” This sentiment drives her motivation and emphasizes the pivotal role judo plays in her life and in the broader context of Israel’s current reality.
Setting Higher Aspirations
While celebrating her bronze medal, Hershko expressed dissatisfaction with her placement, reflecting a mindset geared towards continuous improvement. “I aimed for gold,” she stated candidly. “But now, it’s crucial to focus on the future and the next objectives.” This drive to constantly elevate her performance speaks volumes about her dedication to the sport and her aspirations on the global judo circuit.
In recent years, Hershko has cemented her reputation as one of the world’s top judokas, having previously won a silver medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics and a gold medal at the European Championships that same year. Competing in the women’s heavyweight division, she is continuously pushing the boundaries of success, seeking further achievements.
Bringing Pride to a Struggling Nation
Her recent success comes against the backdrop of Israel’s marked attention to traumatic events, particularly the ongoing remembrance of the October 7th attacks that have heavily influenced public sentiment. Hershko noted the importance of uplifting her fellow citizens. “Being able to offer even small moments of happiness or pride, especially during challenging times, resonates deeply with me. It reinforces the purpose behind my dedication to judo,” she explained.
The myriad pressures stemming from national circumstances have only intensified her focus and awareness of what her performance signifies. Hershko articulated that her perspectives have shifted since the events of October 7th. “Today, that pride is even stronger, reminding me of the larger significance of my efforts,” she reflected.
Hershko’s journey emphasizes not just personal victories, but the broader implications of sports in fostering national pride and unity. As she looks ahead, her love for judo and the sport’s challenges continue driving her to strive for excellence, with no signs of complacency.