Israel’s delegation recorded an impressive achievement at the World Deaf Chess Championship in Spain, where Grandmaster Yehuda Greenfeld, 70, won two gold medals in two different categories: blitz chess and rapid chess.
The victories add another remarkable chapter to Greenfeld’s decorated international career.
Greenfeld, one of the most respected and experienced chess players in the world’s deaf community, proved once again that experience, determination and perseverance can lead to exceptional achievements even at age 70.
Throughout the competition, he displayed a particularly high level of play and finished first in both major categories, bringing great honor to Israel on the international stage.
Alongside Greenfeld’s achievement, Israeli chess player Yevgeny Shevtsiuk also recorded an impressive success, winning the bronze medal in the 55-and-over competition.
Members of the Israeli delegation said the achievements carried special meaning given the complex and tense climate facing Israelis around the world, and amid recent expressions of hostility and antisemitism in Spain. Despite that, the Israeli athletes arrived at the tournament with pride, raised the Israeli flag and delivered inspiring results.
“Every time I represent Israel in the world, I carry with me not only a flag, but also a mission,” Greenfeld said after his victory. “Winning two gold medals is a moment of immense pride for me and for the State of Israel.”
He thanked the Israel Deaf Sports Organization for “years of trust, guidance and uncompromising support,” which he said had been a significant part of his path to achievements on the international stage.
Tzvika Barkai, chairman of the Israel Chess Federation, congratulated the players on their achievements.
“This is a great source of pride for the State of Israel,” he said. “Grandmaster Greenfeld’s two gold medals and Yevgeny Shevtsiuk’s bronze medal continue the flourishing of the field and bring tremendous honor to the country.”
“We will continue working to promote and strengthen chess in general, and among people with disabilities and the deaf community in particular,” Barkai added.