Boursas, recently crowned French Junior Champion in the under-63kg category, went on to secure a bronze medal after a series of strong performances. She observed the traditional pre-fight salute but declined to extend a handshake at the end of the bout — a gesture that, while within the rules, carried heavy political resonance.
Her decision came against the backdrop of Israel’s devastating military campaign in Gaza, widely condemned as genocidal by international voices, and mounting calls in Europe to formally recognize the State of Palestine.
The move drew anger from Israeli officials. Joshua Zarka, Israel’s ambassador to France, called it “shameful behavior contrary to the values of sport,” demanding condemnation and sanctions from French authorities. His criticism, however, has been met with a wave of online support for Boursas, with many praising her refusal to normalize relations with representatives of a manufactured state accused of mass killings and starvation of civilians.
Commentators noted the double standards in international sport, pointing out that while Russian athletes were banned from global competitions over the war in Ukraine, Israeli athletes continue to compete freely despite the ongoing bloodshed in Gaza.
Social media reactions highlighted this growing sentiment. One user wrote: “Well done to her. We do not shake the hands of genocidaires who starve children.” Another demanded the removal of the Israeli flag from sporting events altogether.
Boursas’s stance reflects a broader pattern emerging across the sports world, where athletes are increasingly refusing to engage with Israeli competitors as a form of protest. The symbolic boycott underscores the mounting global isolation of Israel amid its assault on Gaza.