This impressive achievement adds another chapter to Sakas's illustrious career, representing Israel with pride and dedication across the globe.
In the tournament held in Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, Sakas managed to overcome three challenging opponents on his way to the top. "I achieved the desired result", Sakas said in a special interview with "Maakav" after his victory. "After three bouts against tough competitors. I reached first place and won the title of World Cup Champion!".
Loay Sakas, 28, represents a new generation of Israeli athletes who are breaking barriers and achieving impressive international accomplishments. He is not only a talented athlete but also a goodwill ambassador for the State of Israel, demonstrating the sporting values of equality, mutual respect, and excellence.
"I am proud to be Israeli and I love the State of Israel", Sakas declared proudly. "Above all, I am an Israeli athlete representing my country abroad". He added that he feels immense excitement every time the Israeli flag is raised and the national anthem is played in his honor.
Sakas's sports career began at a young age, training in karate under his father's guidance until the age of 14. Subsequently, he discovered his love for kickboxing, a discipline in which he has managed to reach the pinnacle of the world. "Sport has taught me values of discipline, perseverance, and striving for excellence", Sakas shared. "These are values I try to pass on to the younger generation".
Despite his impressive success, Sakas's path has not been without thorns. As an Israeli athlete, he has often encountered hostility in international competitions. "Unfortunately, I sometimes experience contempt and curses from the audience, just because I represent Israel", Sakas shared. "But this only strengthens my determination to succeed and show the beautiful side of our country".
Loay Sakas, the outstanding Israeli kickboxing athlete, expressed his concern to "Maakav" regarding the lack of support from the Ministry of Culture and Sports. According to him, the bulk of expenses falls on the shoulders of the athletes themselves. Sakas expressed his wish that the Israeli government would positively consider a significant increase in the budget allocated to athletes, a step that could greatly contribute to advancing their achievements and dignified representation of the country in the international arena.
Loay does not hesitate to speak about sensitive and complex issues. He expresses deep concern about the state of crime in Arab communities in Israel. "Crime in Arab cities and villages is out of control. This year alone, in my village, Kafr Yasif, seven people were murdered, both Muslims and Christians. This is an intolerable situation", he said painfully.
"We need real solutions and equal enforcement. We are all equal citizens in the State of Israel, and we all deserve to live in security", Loay Sakas emphasized.
Despite the challenges, Sakas remains optimistic and believes in the power of sports to bridge gaps and bring people together. "Sport teaches us to be equal," he said. "In the arena, religion, race, or nationality have no meaning. We are all equal, and this is the spirit I try to spread wherever I go".
The athlete emphasizes the importance of breaking stigmas and stereotypes. "I don't know Arabs who support Hamas or Hezbollah. We are all human beings and we all suffer from terrorist organizations. It's important for me to convey this message and show that there is much more that unites us than divides us", he notes.
Sakas's achievements inspire not only young athletes but also anyone who dreams of reaching the top in their field. "My success is the result of hard work, persistence, and support from my environment", he explains. "I hope my story will encourage others to believe in themselves and chase their dreams, regardless of their origin or background".
Loay Sakas, beyond being the holder of European Cup and World Cup champion titles, is a role model and source of inspiration for the younger generation in Israel and beyond its borders. His impressive achievements in the international arena, along with his adherence to values of respect, tolerance, and love for the homeland, demonstrate that it is possible to combine sporting excellence with nobility of spirit.
"My deep belief is that any talented person, given determination and perseverance, can fulfill their aspirations. My vision is to see a new generation of Israeli athletes, from all communities and religions, proudly carrying our country's flag on world sports stages. It is my hope that through sports we can bridge gaps and represent the beautiful faces of Israel to the entire world", Sakas passionately declares.
Loay Sakas wished to thank everyone who supported him along the way. "Thank you to my delegation members for the great encouragement and support during the competition days. I appreciate and love each and every one of you! Thanks to coaches Riman Abd al-Qadir and Nissim Yonah for the help in the corner and preparations. And a huge thank you to my big brother and coach Peter for everything. Also, thanks to the Kickboxing Federation in Israel and the Eilat Federation for the help and support".
Loay Sakas is a prime example of how sports can serve as a bridge between cultures and peoples. He proves that one can be proud of their Israeli identity while striving for equality and social justice. With athletes like Sakas, the future of Israeli sports looks more promising than ever.
While he continues to compete and represent Israel around the world, Sakas remains connected to his roots and community. He hopes to use his platform to promote positive change in Israeli society and encourage coexistence and cooperation between all sectors of society.
Loay Sakas is more than just a sports champion; he represents the beautiful face of Israel, the sporting spirit at its best, and the hope for a better future for all citizens of the country. With each medal and achievement, he raises not only the Israeli flag but also the human spirit and the belief in the power of sports to bring about positive change in the world.
