Elad Robinshtok was crowned European runner-up in the U19 category, and Naomi Wiegenfeld claimed bronze in the U17 category, at the European Junior Open Championship, which wrapped up in Hamburg, Germany – a strong showing that put the Israeli delegation on the map at one of the most prestigious events on the European junior circuit.
Robinshtok’s run to the final included a nail-biting 3-2 semifinal win over Egypt’s Yassin Kouraitem across five sets. In the final, he fought hard against a Spanish opponent all the way to the finish, ultimately settling for silver – another milestone in his young career.
In the girls’ U17 draw, Wiegenfeld showed strong form throughout the week en route to her bronze medal, while teammate Ofri Maliach also reached the semifinals, giving Israel two players in the tournament’s final four.
The rest of the delegation held their own against top international competition as well: Noam Dror competed in the U15 category, Tamir Wiegenfeld in U19, and Reny Bejarano in U17.
“We’re wrapping up an outstanding championship with a European runner-up finish, a bronze medal, and a great sense of pride among the entire delegation,” said Max Gadot, CEO of the Israel Squash Association.
![An Israeli flag [Ilustrative]](https://images.jpost.com/image/upload/f_auto,fl_lossy/c_fill,g_faces:center,h_537,w_822/438338)
“Elad and Naomi handled the pressure, competed against some of the best players in the world, and proved they belong at the highest levels. Ofri’s advance to the semifinals and the strong performances of the other players also reflect the depth and progress of Israeli squash. These achievements didn’t happen by chance – they’re the result of hard work, daily investment, and a professional team that believes in the players and supports them every step of the way.”
The two athletes 'brought great pride to the State of Israel'
Arik Kaplan, President and CEO of the Ayelet Federation for Non-Olympic Sports, echoed that pride.
“Elad and Naomi brought great pride to the State of Israel and proudly raised the flag on the European stage. Elad’s achievement as European runner-up and Naomi’s bronze medal are tremendous accomplishments, showing what young Israeli athletes can do when given professional support, backing, and the opportunity to compete against the best in the world.”
“Huge congratulations to the medalists, the entire delegation, the coaches, and the Israel Squash Association. At Ayelet, we will continue to stand behind the sport and help it grow, in the belief that Israeli squash’s greatest achievements are still ahead of us," he added.