Yael Arad, the first Israeli to win an Olympic medal, was awarded the Chaim Herzog Presidential Award for Unique Contribution to the State of Israel during a ceremony at the President's Residence in Jerusalem. This award, presented by the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in collaboration with the Yad Chaim Herzog Foundation, honors individuals for their significant contributions to Israeli society. Arad, who won a silver medal in judo at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, has since become a prominent figure in sports and serves as Chair of the Olympic Committee of Israel. President Isaac Herzog expressed pride in awarding Arad, highlighting her role in breaking barriers and promoting Israel's image globally. He noted that his father, Chaim Herzog, valued sports as a means for social advancement. Arad described receiving the award as a profound honor and reflected on her Olympic journey, acknowledging the support she received from the Herzog family during her challenges in international sports.