Israel Olympics icon Yael Arad awarded Chaim Herzog prize

Yael Arad, Israel's pioneering Olympic medalist, has been honored with the prestigious Chaim Herzog Presidential Award for her unique contribution to the State of Israel. The award ceremony took place at the President's Residence in Jerusalem, with President Isaac Herzog and First Lady Michal Herzog in attendance.

Arad, who made history by becoming the first Israeli to win an Olympic medal, a silver in judo at the 1992 Barcelona Games, dedicated her achievement to the 11 Israeli athletes murdered at the Munich Olympics. Since her historic win, Arad has become a prominent figure in Israeli sports, dedicating her career to advancing athletics in the country and serving as an inspiration to generations of athletes. She also developed a successful business career in entrepreneurship and marketing.

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who broke every glass ceiling – from winning Israel’s first Olympic medal to becoming the highly accomplished president of the Olympic Committee.

The Chaim Herzog Award, presented by the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in cooperation with the Yad Chaim Herzog Foundation, recognizes individuals for their significant impact on Israeli society. President Herzog praised Arad, expressing pride that the award named after his father was presented to someone who "broke every glass ceiling." He noted his father's belief in sport as a tool for social advancement and promoting Israel's image globally.

Arad currently serves as the Chair of the Olympic Committee of Israel and is a member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The award ceremony also included Hebrew University President Prof. Tamir Shafer and University Chancellor Prof. Menachem Ben-Sasson. The Chaim Herzog Award is presented every two years on the anniversary of the passing of Israel's sixth president, Chaim Herzog, who himself had a strong connection to sports.

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was the president who proudly sent Yael to the Olympics and welcomed her home with Israel’s first medal.