Paris 2024 Olympics Set to Feature Fencing Showdowns Among Traditional Powerhouses

PARIS — The Paris 2024 Olympic Games are poised to offer some of the most exciting moments in fencing, with traditional powerhouses France and Italy expected to dominate. The prestigious Grand Palais, a venue steeped in history and culture, will serve as the backdrop for the fencing events from July 27 to August 4.

According to Philippines News Agency, both France and Italy have maximized their athlete quotas, each registering 18 fencers divided equally between men and women. France, buoyed by robust local support, is set to compete strongly across all weapon categories. The team features notable athletes such as Tokyo 2020 gold medalist Romain Cannone and world champion Yannick Borel, known for his powerful style and consistency. Additionally, Manon Apithy-Brunet, a six-time World Cup winner, aims to build on her women’s sabre bronze from the previous Olympics.

Italy, leading the all-time Olympic fencing medal table, seeks redemption after a subdued performance at the Tokyo Games, securing only two silver and three bronze medals. Key Italian contenders include Daniele Garozzo, the Rio 2016 champion, and Tommaso Marini, the current world number one in men’s foil. The women’s team features world champions Arianna Errigo and Alice Volpi, along with the young prodigy Martina Favaretto.

The United States also presents significant competition, particularly in the foil events. Lee Kiefer, the first American to win an individual foil gold in Tokyo, returns alongside her husband Gerek Meinhardt, a two-time team bronze medalist and Hall of Famer, making his fifth Olympic appearance.

Hungary continues its rich fencing tradition with strong contenders like Aron Szilagyi, who has won three consecutive Olympic golds in the men’s individual sabre. However, at 34 years old and currently ranked fifth globally, Szilagyi faces stiff competition, particularly from Oh Sang-uk of South Korea, a key player in a team that has previously clinched two men’s team sabre golds.

Other nations such as China, Japan, Ukraine, Egypt, and Estonia are also expected to challenge the traditional powerhouses. Notable athletes include Sun Yiwen of China, Hong Kong’s Vivian Kong Man Wai and Cheung Ka Long, Japan’s Misaki Emura and Koki Kano, and Ukraine’s Olga Kharlan.

As the Paris Olympics approach, the fencing events promise to deliver a blend of high-stakes competition and dramatic showdowns, showcasing the sport’s enduring appeal and the intense rivalries that define its highest levels.