Egyptian judoka, Islam El Shehaby has been sent home from the Olympics after refusing to shake hands with his Israeli opponent, Or Sasson.
El Shehaby was beaten by Sasson in the first round of the heavyweight category last week, before denying him a handshake and the traditional bow.
It is a custom in judo for opponents to bow at each other and share a handshake at the end of the match and the 34-year-old was strongly reprimanded by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) for his unsportsmanlike behaviour.
“The Egyptian Olympic Committee strongly condemns Islam El Shehaby’s actions and have sent him home,” said a spokesperson for the IOC after a disciplinary committee meeting.
“The Disciplinary Commission (DC) has concluded that his behaviour at the end of the game went against the concept of fair play and spirit of friendship embodied in the Olympic Values.
“As well as a severe reprimand, the DC has asked the Egyptian Olympic Committee to ensure in future that all their athletes receive proper education on the Olympic Values before coming to the Olympic Games.”
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