The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has not only affected the lives of millions of civilians, but also the sports scene in the Jewish state. However, many athletes from Israel and abroad have shown their solidarity and support for Israel in these difficult times.
One of the most prominent figures in Israeli sports is David Blatt, the former head coach of the Cleveland Cavaliers and Maccabi Tel Aviv. Blatt, who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2019, posted a moving message on his social media accounts, calling for unity and courage in the face of the enemy.
“United we stand, divided we fall. I wish all the courage and the strength to overcome our pain and our enemies. Now is not the time to play the blame game or to fight internal political battles. We have immediate and bigger challenges,” Blatt wrote.
He also urged the world to wake up and recognize the threat of terrorism that Israel is facing. “This is real, call it Hamas, call it ISIS, call it terrorism. This is a battle for humanity,” he added.
Blatt concluded his message with a sports analogy, saying that Israelis should act like sportsmen and support each other in this struggle. “Join hands and hearts, put aside all your petty disagreements for a day, for a week, for a year. Save our country and our way of life. Be a sportsman, know what it is to face the adversary, to join hands, to offer support in any way we can to our friends and teammates,” he said.
Floyd Mayweather’s generous donation
Another famous athlete who showed his support for Israel was Floyd Mayweather, the undefeated boxing legend. Mayweather, who is known for his lavish lifestyle and philanthropy, sent a private plane full of humanitarian aid to Israel, according to Israeli media reports.
The plane reportedly carried medical supplies, food, water, and clothing for the victims of the rocket attacks from Gaza. Mayweather also expressed his admiration for Israel’s resilience and determination in defending itself.
“I have always been a fan of Israel and its people. They are strong and brave, and they never give up. I wanted to do something to help them in this crisis,” Mayweather said in a statement.
Mayweather also said that he hopes to visit Israel soon and meet some of his fans there. “Israel is a beautiful country with a rich history and culture. I look forward to seeing it with my own eyes and experiencing it first-hand,” he said.
Olympic medalists weigh in
The Olympic Games are less than six months away, and many Israeli athletes are preparing to represent their country in Tokyo. However, some of them have also taken time to voice their opinions on the current situation in Israel.
Linoy Ashram, who won the gold medal in rhythmic gymnastics at the 2020 Olympics, posted a video on her Instagram account, saying that she is proud to be an Israeli and that she prays for peace. “I am an athlete, but I am also a human being. I love my country and I want it to be safe and peaceful. I hope that this nightmare will end soon and that we can all live together in harmony,” she said.
Sagi Muki, who won the bronze medal in judo at the 2020 Olympics, also shared his thoughts on his Instagram account, saying that he stands with Israel and its right to defend itself. “I am a judoka, but I am also an Israeli. I support my country and its army in this war against terror. I believe that Israel has the right to exist and to protect its citizens from harm,” he said.
Muki also expressed his hope that sport can be a bridge between people and nations, especially in the Middle East. “I am a friend of peace and dialogue. I have shown that sport can overcome politics and hatred. I have competed with athletes from Iran, Egypt, Morocco, and other countries that do not recognize Israel. I have shown respect and friendship to them, and they have shown respect and friendship to me,” he said.
