Peter Paltchik wants to regain his Tel Aviv title but faces tough challenge

One of Israel’s top judoka, Peter Paltchik was present at the draw for the Grand Slam in Tel Aviv, representing the Israel Judo Association and he explained some of the attachment to judo

“I really like to fight here. Judo means so much to me. It saved my life and I will explain about this more in the future but for today it is just necessary to know that it is special to fight at home. I love to be here, encouraging more people to be involved in this sport that I love. It’s the best sport because of the values. I see so many children coming to these events and encouraging us, with a powerful and positive energy and so this is truly reciprocated. I wish everyone good luck not just for the tournament and results but to have the chance to feel the spirit of judo in Israel.”

Paltchik will fight on Saturday in his U100kg division. His main opponent to reach the semi final will be double World Champion Jorge Fonseca, not an easy task. They will fight in Pool B. Pool A is led by Dutchman Michael Korrel, the Paris winner who might be opposed to his friend Varlam Liparteliani for a place in the semi final. In Pool Azeri Zelym Kotsoiev is the man to watch out for. He might get opposition from another Dutchman Simeon Catharina fi he survives his first contests. In Pool D both Canadian top athletes might face each-other Shady El Nahas and world championships runner-up Kyle Reyes. Sofia winner Louis May is close to Kyle Reyes and perhaps his first opponent.

Winners since the first Grand Prix in Tel Aviv in this division are: Aleandre Iddir in 2018, Peter Paltchik in 2019 and since the Grand Slam in 2021 it was Michael Korrel and current world number one Ilia Sulamanidze last year.