Ukrainian-born Israeli judoka and Olympic bronze medalist Peter Paltchik, 33, announced his retirement on Monday, November 10, through an online video. He recounted his judo journey and thanked his coach Oren Smadga for his support over the years.
“Today I am closing a circle of a small boy from Rishon LeZion, who against all odds reached the biggest podium in the world,” Paltchik said in the video. 
Paltchik, who was born in Ukraine but grew up in Israel, started judo at the age of four. He didn’t like it at first and wanted to quit but his grandfather insisted that he stick to it.
Judo changed his life. According to Paltchik, when he was young, he used to be a bully, something he regrets. But through judo, her learned good values and changed his ways.
As an athlete, Paltchik is one of Israel’s most decorated judo players. He won bronze medals at the 2023 World Championships and the 2024 Paris Olympics. Paltchik also has a European Championships gold and six IJF World Tour gold medals.
In September 2024, he launched the Paltchik Foundation to support young athletes in need. He has committed to donate 3% of his business revenues to the foundation. He is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in advertising and marketing communications.
