While Spain's La Liga distanced itself from supporting Israel or condemning Hamas's terrorist attack on October 7, one of the league's brightest stars, who proudly dons the Real Madrid jersey, took a moment to honor the memory of fallen IDF soldier Staff Sergeant Adi Tzur, a devoted fan of the club from the Spanish capital.
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"I heard about the story of Adi, he was a real hero, I want to wish strength and support to the family and friends of Adi," the Los Blancos goalie said in the video. "I also send this on behalf of Real Madrid, we send strength to the family, I heard also he was a big Real Madrid fan, so I'm sure he will be with us to celebrate more victories and trophies."
This is not the first time Courtois, who is married to Israeli model Mishel Gerzig, has shown support for Israel since the outset of the war. Just two days after the Hamas terror attack he posted a story to Instagram, reading "I'm deeply saddened by the current situation. My heartfelt love and support go out to my friends and family in Israel, with the hope that this nightmare will come to an end soon."
Adi Tzur likely never anticipated the harrowing moments he faced on the morning of October 7. Indeed, nothing in his life, or in anyone's life, could have prepared them for the Hamas attack. Yet, during those perilous hours, Adi and many others exhibited remarkable bravery in the face of danger in the communities surrounding Gaza and the south.
Tzur, a resident of Jerusalem, fell in battle on Saturday. Tzur, from Jerusalem, tragically fell in battle on Saturday. However, his displayed bravery stood out notably among his fellow soldiers at the Kissufim base and the neighboring kibbutz.
"Adi was killed in the battle near Kibbutz Kissufim. Thanks to his bravery and of many others, the majority of Adi's friends survived to return to base, as did many residents of the kibbutz," recounts Einav Haliva, Adi's partner for the past six years. "He fought until the very last moment and fell as a hero."