Israeli gymnast wins historic medal

Neta Rivkin, 20, picks up bronze medal in hoop individual final at Rhythmic Gymnastics World Championships, in Montpellier, France. 'Words cannot describe my joy,' she says

Oren Aharoni |Published: 09.21.11 , 15:01

Rhythmic gymnast Neta Rivkin on Tuesday won a historic medal for Israel at the 2011 Rhythmic Gymnastics World Championships in Montpellier, France after coming in third in the hoop individual final with 28 points.

The gold medal was won by Russian Olympic champion Evgenia Kanaeva, who scored 29.3 points. Her teammate Daria Kondakova came in second with 29.05 points.

ריבקין (מימין) עם המדליה על הפודיום (צילום: EPA)

Rivkin (R) with her medal on the podium (Photo: EPA)

In addition to her bronze medal, Rivkin ranked seventh in the ball final with 27.375 points.

"There are no words to describe what I'm feeling now," Rivkin said after the medal ceremony. Words cannot describe my joy. I just want to remain focused in order to continue representing the country with dignity and taking the first significant step – the criterion for the London Olympic Games."

Culture and Sports Minister Limor Livnat congratulated the new medalist, saying that "Neta Rivkin's accomplishment is huge. In spite of her young age, Neta is one of the most important ambassadors of Israeli sports thanks to her persistence and excellence.

"I congratulate her for becoming Israel's greatest rhythmic gymnast after winning the first-ever medal in the world championship."