<p>Indian fencing contingent created history as the country won the overall championship title at the Commonwealth Fencing Championship 2026 in Lagos, Nigeria. India finished the four-day event with a record 35 medals, including 13 Gold, 8 Silver and 14 Bronze medals across the U-23 and Senior categories, according to a press release.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The historic campaign ended on Wednesday with a dominant display in the Senior Team events. Indian fencers won five of the six team Gold medals, finishing on top in Men’s Sabre, Women’s Sabre, Men’s Epee, Women’s Epee and Women’s Foil. India also won Silver in Men’s Foil.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The impressive results helped India secure the prestigious Wilkinson Sword Trophy, which has been awarded by the Commonwealth Fencing Federation since 1982 to the country with the best overall performance.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>India’s success began on Day 1, when the team won 17 medals in the U-23 Individual events, including four Gold, four Silver and nine Bronze medals. Nikhil Wagh led a podium sweep in Men’s Sabre, while Joys Ashita, Prachi Lohan and Jeferlin also won Gold medals in Women’s Foil, Women’s Epee and Women’s Sabre respectively.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>On Day 2, India added seven medals in the Senior Individual events, including one Gold, two Silver and four Bronze medals. Tanishka Khatri and Khushi Dabhade led the way with a Gold-Silver finish in Senior Women’s Epee.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Indian fencers continued their strong run on Day 3, winning five more medals, including three Gold, one Silver and one Bronze. Kanaglakshmi won Gold in Senior Women’s Foil, while Rajendran Shanthimol Sherjin and Singh Karan Singh claimed top honours in Senior Men’s Epee and Senior Men’s Sabre.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The team’s success was also supported by coaches Bharatji Thakor, Shrihari Pise and Shankar Narayanan, physiotherapist Amruta Balkawade and team manager Manu Tyagi.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read - </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-coach-morne-morkel-backs-kl-rahul-to-play-key-role-against-sri-lanka-1786627125746"><strong>IND vs SL: Coach Morne Morkel backs KL Rahul to play key role against Sri Lanka</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Fencing Association of India Secretary General Rajeev Mehta praised the entire contingent for its achievement.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"I am incredibly proud of our entire contingent--every single athlete, coach, and support staff member whose untiring dedication made this historic victory possible. Lifting the Commonwealth Overall Championship title for the very first time is a testament to the talent, discipline, and hard work within Indian fencing. This monumental achievement will serve as a massive boost of confidence for our fencers and will undoubtedly create strong positive momentum as we prepare for upcoming international tournaments and major global championships."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read - </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-prioritise-brazil-friendly-withdraw-from-fifa-asean-cup-1786623408903"><strong>India prioritise Brazil friendly, withdraw from FIFA ASEAN Cup</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>India’s historic performance in Lagos marks an important moment for the sport in the country. With the Wilkinson Sword Trophy coming home, the Fencing Association of India will now look to build on this success through continued support and high-level training ahead of future international competitions.</p>

India clinched their maiden overall title at the Commonwealth Fencing Championships in Lagos with a record 35-medal haul, marking a major milestone for the sport in the country.

Indian fencing contingent created history as the country won the overall championship title at the Commonwealth Fencing Championship 2026 in Lagos, Nigeria. India finished the four-day event with a record 35 medals, including 13 Gold, 8 Silver and 14 Bronze medals across the U-23 and Senior categories, according to a press release. The historic campaign ended on Wednesday with a dominant display in the Senior Team events. Indian fencers won five of the six team Gold medals, finishing on top in Men’s Sabre, Women’s Sabre, Men’s Epee, Women’s Epee and Women’s Foil. India also won Silver in Men’s Foil. The impressive results helped India secure the prestigious Wilkinson Sword Trophy, which has been awarded by the Commonwealth Fencing Federation since 1982 to the country with the best overall performance. India’s success began on Day 1, when the team won 17 medals in the U-23 Individual events, including four Gold, four Silver and nine Bronze medals. Nikhil Wagh led a podium sweep in Men’s Sabre, while Joys Ashita, Prachi Lohan and Jeferlin also won Gold medals in Women’s Foil, Women’s Epee and Women’s Sabre respectively. On Day 2, India added seven medals in the Senior Individual events, including one Gold, two Silver and four Bronze medals. Tanishka Khatri and Khushi Dabhade led the way with a Gold-Silver finish in Senior Women’s Epee. Indian fencers continued their strong run on Day 3, winning five more medals, including three Gold, one Silver and one Bronze. Kanaglakshmi won Gold in Senior Women’s Foil, while Rajendran Shanthimol Sherjin and Singh Karan Singh claimed top honours in Senior Men’s Epee and Senior Men’s Sabre. The team’s success was also supported by coaches Bharatji Thakor, Shrihari Pise and Shankar Narayanan, physiotherapist Amruta Balkawade and team manager Manu Tyagi. Also Read - IND vs SL: Coach Morne Morkel backs KL Rahul to play key role against Sri Lanka Fencing Association of India Secretary General Rajeev Mehta praised the entire contingent for its achievement. "I am incredibly proud of our entire contingent--every single athlete, coach, and support staff member whose untiring dedication made this historic victory possible. Lifting the Commonwealth Overall Championship title for the very first time is a testament to the talent, discipline, and hard work within Indian fencing. This monumental achievement will serve as a massive boost of confidence for our fencers and will undoubtedly create strong positive momentum as we prepare for upcoming international tournaments and major global championships." Also Read - India prioritise Brazil friendly, withdraw from FIFA ASEAN Cup India’s historic performance in Lagos marks an important moment for the sport in the country. With the Wilkinson Sword Trophy coming home, the Fencing Association of India will now look to build on this success through continued support and high-level training ahead of future international competitions.

<p>India clinched their maiden overall title at the Commonwealth Fencing Championships in Lagos with a record 35-medal haul, marking a major milestone for the sport in the country.</p>

Commonwealth Fencing Championships 2026: India clinch maiden overall title

<p>A 24-member Indian fencing contingent has officially departed on Monday to represent the country at the Senior World Fencing Championships 2026, taking place in Hong Kong from July 22nd to July 30th 2026.</p><p>The nine-day flagship event will be held at the AsiaWorld-Expo venue. The Indian team consists of 12 men and 12 women athletes competing across all three fencing disciplines — Epee, Foil, and Sabre, in both individual and team formats. The contingent is supported by five national coaches and two physiotherapists.</p><p><strong>Also Read</strong> - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-offers-to-share-revenue-with-players-amid-prize-money-row-1784690627107">French Open offers to share revenue with players amid prize money row</a></p><h2>Indian Squad:</h2><p><strong>Epee (Women):</strong> Taniksha Khatri, Prachi Lohan, Yashkeerat Kaur Hayer, Mitva Jesangbhai Chaudhari</p><p><strong>Epee (Men):</strong> Sherjin Rajendran Shanthimol, Joseph Bennet, Siva Magesh Sathasivan Nirmala, Shaurya Ashwini</p><p><strong>Foil (Women):</strong> Joys Ashitha Stalinraj, Mina Devi Naorem, Kanupriya Chawla, Sonia Devi Waikhom</p><p><strong>Foil (Men):</strong> Sachin, Hemash Singh Sanasam, Aditya, Tejas Manoj Patil</p><p><strong>Sabre (Women):</strong> Shreya Gupta, Jefarlin Jani Rexlin Simla, Shruti Joshi, Aakhri</p><p><strong>Sabre (Men):</strong> Karan Singh, Gisho Nidhi Kumaresan Padma, Lakshay Badser, Vishal Thapar</p><p>Sending his best wishes to the Indian squad on departure, Mr. Rajeev Mehta, Secretary-General, Fencing Association of India said, "This World Championship represents a major milestone for Indian fencing as we test our strength against the very best in the world. Our athletes across Épée, Foil, and Sabre have put in intense preparation and shown remarkable grit throughout the national and international season. We have immense belief in this contingent's ability to compete with fearlessness, push boundaries, and bring pride to the nation in Hong Kong. I wish them good luck."</p><h2>Day-Wise Event Schedule:</h2><p>July 22: Qualifications – Men's Foil &amp; Women's Épée</p><p>July 23: Qualifications – Men's Épée &amp; Women's Sabre</p><p>July 24: Qualifications – Men's Sabre &amp; Women's Foil</p><p>July 25: Individual Finals – Men's Foil &amp; Women's Épée</p><p>July 26: Individual Finals – Men's Épée &amp; Women's Sabre</p><p>July 27: Individual Finals – Men's Sabre &amp; Women's Foil</p><p>July 28: Team Events – Men's Foil &amp; Women's Épée</p><p>July 29: Team Events – Men's Épée &amp; Women's Sabre</p><p>July 30: Team Events – Men's Sabre &amp; Women's Foil</p>

The nine-day flagship event will be held at the AsiaWorld-Expo venue. The Indian team consists of 12 men and 12 women athletes competing across all three fencing disciplines — Epee, Foil, and Sabre, in both individual and team formats.

A 24-member Indian fencing contingent has officially departed on Monday to represent the country at the Senior World Fencing Championships 2026, taking place in Hong Kong from July 22nd to July 30th 2026. The nine-day flagship event will be held at the AsiaWorld-Expo venue. The Indian team consists of 12 men and 12 women athletes competing across all three fencing disciplines — Epee, Foil, and Sabre, in both individual and team formats. The contingent is supported by five national coaches and two physiotherapists. Also Read - French Open offers to share revenue with players amid prize money row Indian Squad: Epee (Women): Taniksha Khatri, Prachi Lohan, Yashkeerat Kaur Hayer, Mitva Jesangbhai Chaudhari Epee (Men): Sherjin Rajendran Shanthimol, Joseph Bennet, Siva Magesh Sathasivan Nirmala, Shaurya Ashwini Foil (Women): Joys Ashitha Stalinraj, Mina Devi Naorem, Kanupriya Chawla, Sonia Devi Waikhom Foil (Men): Sachin, Hemash Singh Sanasam, Aditya, Tejas Manoj Patil Sabre (Women): Shreya Gupta, Jefarlin Jani Rexlin Simla, Shruti Joshi, Aakhri Sabre (Men): Karan Singh, Gisho Nidhi Kumaresan Padma, Lakshay Badser, Vishal Thapar Sending his best wishes to the Indian squad on departure, Mr. Rajeev Mehta, Secretary-General, Fencing Association of India said, "This World Championship represents a major milestone for Indian fencing as we test our strength against the very best in the world. Our athletes across Épée, Foil, and Sabre have put in intense preparation and shown remarkable grit throughout the national and international season. We have immense belief in this contingent's ability to compete with fearlessness, push boundaries, and bring pride to the nation in Hong Kong. I wish them good luck." Day-Wise Event Schedule: July 22: Qualifications – Men's Foil & Women's Épée July 23: Qualifications – Men's Épée & Women's Sabre July 24: Qualifications – Men's Sabre & Women's Foil July 25: Individual Finals – Men's Foil & Women's Épée July 26: Individual Finals – Men's Épée & Women's Sabre July 27: Individual Finals – Men's Sabre & Women's Foil July 28: Team Events – Men's Foil & Women's Épée July 29: Team Events – Men's Épée & Women's Sabre July 30: Team Events – Men's Sabre & Women's Foil

<p>The nine-day flagship event will be held at the AsiaWorld-Expo venue. The Indian team consists of 12 men and 12 women athletes competing across all three fencing disciplines — Epee, Foil, and Sabre, in both individual and team formats.</p>

Indian fencing squad departs for senior world championships 2026 in Hong Kong

<p>The 2026 Asian Senior Fencing Championships at the Bharat Mandapam concluded with historically significant milestones for the 24-member Indian contingent. Hosting the premier continental championship for the first time, Indian fencers went toe-to-toe with global powerhouses from Japan and South Korea, delivering high-resilience displays in both individual and team categories. The absolute highlight for the home nation was the Men's Foil Team securing direct qualification for the upcoming Asian Games, proving that India is rapidly transforming into a formidable force on the international strip.</p><p><strong>Also Read</strong> - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-tops-aiu-list-of-countries-with-most-doping-offenders-expert-shares-reason-behind-menace-and-ways-to-overcome-1783073159930">India tops AIU list of countries with most doping offenders: Expert shares reason behind menace and ways to overcome</a></p><p>The Men’s Foil Team (8th in Asia) emerged as the history-makers of the tournament. The quartet of Sachin, Sanasam Hemash Singh, Tejas Manoj Patil, and Aditya executed an incredible string of tactical relay bouts to finish in the elite top 8, officially securing India's direct qualification berth for the Asian Games. On the individual front, Kanupriya Chawla delivered India’s best individual result of the entire championship in the Women's Foil category. Defying initial pool projections, she advanced deep into the knockout brackets to finish a brilliant 20th in Asia, while teammates Joys Ashitha Stalinraj (43rd), Naorem Mina Devi (45th), and Sonia Devi Waikhom (46th) gained massive top-tier experience. In the Men's Foil individual events, Sachin led the side with a highly commendable 25th-place finish. His teammates, Sanasam Hemash Singh, Aditya, and Tejas Manoj Patil, fought through fiercely competitive pools before bowing out early against deep East Asian rosters. Meanwhile, the Women’s Foil Team carried excellent momentum from Chawla’s individual run into the relay grids, narrowly finishing just outside the top 8. Despite the demanding 45-point stamina curve against Olympic-level rosters, their resilience secured valuable ranking points for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic cycle.</p><p>The Men's Sabre individual discipline saw India's most balanced and deep outing, successfully placing three athletes in the prestigious Asian top 32. Vishal Thapar led the charge with an aggressive run to finish 22nd overall, followed closely by Karan Singh (25th) and Gisho Nidhi Kumaresan Padma (28th), while Lakshay Badser narrowly missed the knockout cuts to finish 33rd. In the Women's Sabre individual events, trailblazing Olympian Bhavani Devi fought valiantly under immense home-crowd pressure. Though stopped in the intense direct elimination rounds, she ultimately locked in a 23rd-place finish in Asia. The Women's Sabre Team—with Bhavani Devi operating as the vital anchor alongside Shreya Gupta, Jefarlin J.S., and Shruti Joshi—showed remarkable technical synergy in the early and middle cycles to earn a resilient Top 10 finish in Asia after a hard-fought battle against a heavily favored East Asian roster. The Men’s Sabre Team mirrored this success as the quartet of Gisho Nidhi, Vishal Thapar, Karan Singh, and Lakshay Badser displayed phenomenal chemistry through difficult direct-elimination brackets to secure their own strong Top 10 finish in Asia, locking in crucial ranking points for the LA 2028 roadmap.</p><p>In the Women's Épée individual field, Prachi Lohan stood out as the top performer for India, securing a highly respectable 22nd-place finish in Asia. Commonwealth Junior silver medalist Taniksha Khatri, along with teammates Mitva Jesangbhai Chaudhari and Yashkeerat Kaur Hayer, faced a brutal draw against top-tier Chinese and South Korean fencers, bowing out in the early knockout phases. The Women’s Épée Team showed remarkable resilience by bouncing back after those tough individual draws, putting together a cohesive performance to secure a strong 9th-place finish in Asia. The Men’s Épée individual contingent—Shrejin Rajendran Shanthim, Joseph Bennet, Shaurya Ashwini, and Aloshious Koovakkal Joshy—gained crucial international exposure in highly defensive pool matches. They carried that experience into the Men's Épée Team relays, displaying immense grit to defend their strips and solidify India's widespread top-10 presence across the team categories.</p><p>Reflecting on the monumental home campaign and looking ahead to the critical multi-sport calendar, Mr. Rajeev Mehta, Secretary General of the Fencing Association of India (FAI) and Fencing Confederation of Asia (FCA), stated: "Hosting the Senior Asian Fencing Championships for the first time is a watershed moment that will permanently redefine the trajectory of Indian sports. Our fencers have given a very good performance on home soil, proving they can match strides with the world's absolute elite. This tournament provides unprecedented exposure to world-class pressure under the eyes of home fans. The experience gained here, alongside the Men’s Foil team securing direct qualification, lays down a definitive foundational path for our athletes. It gives them the vital competitive edge, confidence, and tactical depth needed to aggressively contend for the podium at the upcoming Asian Games."</p><p>With the continental chapter successfully closed, the Indian contingent will instantly pivot to the global stage. The valuable ranking points and technical growth achieved at Bharat Mandapam serve as the perfect launchpad for the upcoming World Fencing Championships. Competing against the absolute best from every continent, India's elite fencers are primed to carry this historic momentum forward, testing their mettle on the global circuit as they continue building toward a historic roadmap for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic cycle.&nbsp;</p>

The Men’s Foil Team (8th in Asia) emerged as the history-makers of the tournament. In the individual front, Kanupriya Chawla delivered India’s best individual result of the entire championship in the Women's Foil category.

The 2026 Asian Senior Fencing Championships at the Bharat Mandapam concluded with historically significant milestones for the 24-member Indian contingent. Hosting the premier continental championship for the first time, Indian fencers went toe-to-toe with global powerhouses from Japan and South Korea, delivering high-resilience displays in both individual and team categories. The absolute highlight for the home nation was the Men's Foil Team securing direct qualification for the upcoming Asian Games, proving that India is rapidly transforming into a formidable force on the international strip. Also Read - India tops AIU list of countries with most doping offenders: Expert shares reason behind menace and ways to overcome The Men’s Foil Team (8th in Asia) emerged as the history-makers of the tournament. The quartet of Sachin, Sanasam Hemash Singh, Tejas Manoj Patil, and Aditya executed an incredible string of tactical relay bouts to finish in the elite top 8, officially securing India's direct qualification berth for the Asian Games. On the individual front, Kanupriya Chawla delivered India’s best individual result of the entire championship in the Women's Foil category. Defying initial pool projections, she advanced deep into the knockout brackets to finish a brilliant 20th in Asia, while teammates Joys Ashitha Stalinraj (43rd), Naorem Mina Devi (45th), and Sonia Devi Waikhom (46th) gained massive top-tier experience. In the Men's Foil individual events, Sachin led the side with a highly commendable 25th-place finish. His teammates, Sanasam Hemash Singh, Aditya, and Tejas Manoj Patil, fought through fiercely competitive pools before bowing out early against deep East Asian rosters. Meanwhile, the Women’s Foil Team carried excellent momentum from Chawla’s individual run into the relay grids, narrowly finishing just outside the top 8. Despite the demanding 45-point stamina curve against Olympic-level rosters, their resilience secured valuable ranking points for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic cycle. The Men's Sabre individual discipline saw India's most balanced and deep outing, successfully placing three athletes in the prestigious Asian top 32. Vishal Thapar led the charge with an aggressive run to finish 22nd overall, followed closely by Karan Singh (25th) and Gisho Nidhi Kumaresan Padma (28th), while Lakshay Badser narrowly missed the knockout cuts to finish 33rd. In the Women's Sabre individual events, trailblazing Olympian Bhavani Devi fought valiantly under immense home-crowd pressure. Though stopped in the intense direct elimination rounds, she ultimately locked in a 23rd-place finish in Asia. The Women's Sabre Team—with Bhavani Devi operating as the vital anchor alongside Shreya Gupta, Jefarlin J.S., and Shruti Joshi—showed remarkable technical synergy in the early and middle cycles to earn a resilient Top 10 finish in Asia after a hard-fought battle against a heavily favored East Asian roster. The Men’s Sabre Team mirrored this success as the quartet of Gisho Nidhi, Vishal Thapar, Karan Singh, and Lakshay Badser displayed phenomenal chemistry through difficult direct-elimination brackets to secure their own strong Top 10 finish in Asia, locking in crucial ranking points for the LA 2028 roadmap. In the Women's Épée individual field, Prachi Lohan stood out as the top performer for India, securing a highly respectable 22nd-place finish in Asia. Commonwealth Junior silver medalist Taniksha Khatri, along with teammates Mitva Jesangbhai Chaudhari and Yashkeerat Kaur Hayer, faced a brutal draw against top-tier Chinese and South Korean fencers, bowing out in the early knockout phases. The Women’s Épée Team showed remarkable resilience by bouncing back after those tough individual draws, putting together a cohesive performance to secure a strong 9th-place finish in Asia. The Men’s Épée individual contingent—Shrejin Rajendran Shanthim, Joseph Bennet, Shaurya Ashwini, and Aloshious Koovakkal Joshy—gained crucial international exposure in highly defensive pool matches. They carried that experience into the Men's Épée Team relays, displaying immense grit to defend their strips and solidify India's widespread top-10 presence across the team categories. Reflecting on the monumental home campaign and looking ahead to the critical multi-sport calendar, Mr. Rajeev Mehta, Secretary General of the Fencing Association of India (FAI) and Fencing Confederation of Asia (FCA), stated: "Hosting the Senior Asian Fencing Championships for the first time is a watershed moment that will permanently redefine the trajectory of Indian sports. Our fencers have given a very good performance on home soil, proving they can match strides with the world's absolute elite. This tournament provides unprecedented exposure to world-class pressure under the eyes of home fans. The experience gained here, alongside the Men’s Foil team securing direct qualification, lays down a definitive foundational path for our athletes. It gives them the vital competitive edge, confidence, and tactical depth needed to aggressively contend for the podium at the upcoming Asian Games." With the continental chapter successfully closed, the Indian contingent will instantly pivot to the global stage. The valuable ranking points and technical growth achieved at Bharat Mandapam serve as the perfect launchpad for the upcoming World Fencing Championships. Competing against the absolute best from every continent, India's elite fencers are primed to carry this historic momentum forward, testing their mettle on the global circuit as they continue building toward a historic roadmap for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic cycle.

<p>The Men’s Foil Team (8th in Asia) emerged as the history-makers of the tournament. In the individual front, Kanupriya Chawla delivered India’s best individual result of the entire championship in the Women's Foil category.</p>

India men's foil fencing team secure qualification in upcoming Asian Games 2026

<p>The International Fencing Federation (FIE) and the Fencing Association of India (FAI) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation and support the continued growth and promotion of fencing in India in the lead-up to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.</p><p>The MoU was signed by Abdelmoniem El Husseiny, Interim President of the International Fencing Federation (FIE), and Rajeev Mehta, Secretary General of the Fencing Association of India (FAI) and Secretary General of the Fencing Confederation of Asia (FCA), on the sidelines of the Asian Fencing Championships 2026 in New Delhi.</p><p><strong>Also Read</strong> - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-regulator-drops-investigation-into-ben-stokes-gus-atkinson-london-nightclub-incident-ecb-eng-vs-nz-3rd-test-trent-bridge-1782140545839">Cricket Regulator drops investigation into Stokes, Atkinson nightclub incident</a></p><p>The partnership establishes a framework for collaboration across key areas including athlete promotion, fan engagement, communications, stakeholder outreach, and initiatives aimed at increasing the visibility and appeal of fencing. Through this collaboration, the International Fencing Federation (FIE) and the Fencing Association of India (FAI) will work together to create opportunities that support athletes, engage new audiences, and contribute to the long-term development of the sport.</p><p>Elated on the occasion Mr. Abdelmoniem El Husseiny, Interim President, International Fencing Federation (FIE), said: “India represents one of the most exciting growth opportunities for fencing. We are delighted to strengthen our relationship with the Fencing Association of India through this agreement and look forward to working together to increase the sport’s visibility, inspire young athletes, and build momentum on the road to Los Angeles 2028.”</p><p>Speaking about the opportunity Mr. Rajeev Mehta, Secretary General, Fencing Association of India (FAI) and Secretary General, Fencing Confederation of Asia (FCA), said: “This MoU marks an important step in the growth journey of fencing in India. The collaboration with the International Fencing Federation will help us further strengthen the sport’s ecosystem, create greater awareness, and provide enhanced opportunities for athletes to excel. Together, we are committed to building a stronger future for fencing and inspiring the next generation of fencers as we look ahead to LA28.”</p><p>The signing of the MoU reflects the shared vision of the International Fencing Federation (FIE) and the Fencing Association of India (FAI) to accelerate the growth of fencing, enhance its visibility among fans and stakeholders, and create a lasting legacy for the sport in India and beyond.</p>

The partnership establishes a framework for collaboration across key areas including athlete promotion, fan engagement, communications, stakeholder outreach, and initiatives aimed at increasing the visibility and appeal of fencing.

The International Fencing Federation (FIE) and the Fencing Association of India (FAI) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation and support the continued growth and promotion of fencing in India in the lead-up to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. The MoU was signed by Abdelmoniem El Husseiny, Interim President of the International Fencing Federation (FIE), and Rajeev Mehta, Secretary General of the Fencing Association of India (FAI) and Secretary General of the Fencing Confederation of Asia (FCA), on the sidelines of the Asian Fencing Championships 2026 in New Delhi. Also Read - Cricket Regulator drops investigation into Stokes, Atkinson nightclub incident The partnership establishes a framework for collaboration across key areas including athlete promotion, fan engagement, communications, stakeholder outreach, and initiatives aimed at increasing the visibility and appeal of fencing. Through this collaboration, the International Fencing Federation (FIE) and the Fencing Association of India (FAI) will work together to create opportunities that support athletes, engage new audiences, and contribute to the long-term development of the sport. Elated on the occasion Mr. Abdelmoniem El Husseiny, Interim President, International Fencing Federation (FIE), said: “India represents one of the most exciting growth opportunities for fencing. We are delighted to strengthen our relationship with the Fencing Association of India through this agreement and look forward to working together to increase the sport’s visibility, inspire young athletes, and build momentum on the road to Los Angeles 2028.” Speaking about the opportunity Mr. Rajeev Mehta, Secretary General, Fencing Association of India (FAI) and Secretary General, Fencing Confederation of Asia (FCA), said: “This MoU marks an important step in the growth journey of fencing in India. The collaboration with the International Fencing Federation will help us further strengthen the sport’s ecosystem, create greater awareness, and provide enhanced opportunities for athletes to excel. Together, we are committed to building a stronger future for fencing and inspiring the next generation of fencers as we look ahead to LA28.” The signing of the MoU reflects the shared vision of the International Fencing Federation (FIE) and the Fencing Association of India (FAI) to accelerate the growth of fencing, enhance its visibility among fans and stakeholders, and create a lasting legacy for the sport in India and beyond.

<p>The partnership establishes a framework for collaboration across key areas including athlete promotion, fan engagement, communications, stakeholder outreach, and initiatives aimed at increasing the visibility and appeal of fencing.</p>

Fencing Association of India signs MoU with international body with LA28 in sight

<p>Nada Hafez, the Egyptian fencer, played seven-month pregnant at the ongoing Paris Olympics 2024. The athlete revealed the news herself through an Instagram post on Tuesday (Jul 30).</p>

<p>"What appears to you as two players on the podium, they were actually three! It was me, my competitor, &amp; my yet-to-come to our world, little baby!," she wrote alongside a couple of her pictures after her match.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis/news-nadalcaraz-have-been-suffering-but-nadals-big-claim-on-playing-with-carlos-alcaraz-in-paris-olympics-745949">'Nadalcaraz' have been suffering but....: Nadal's BIG claim on playing with Carlos Alcaraz in Paris Olympics</a></p>

<p>She beat American Elizabeth Tartakovsky 15-13 in the first round to advance to Round of 16 match and shared the post later.</p>

<p>"My baby &amp; I had our fair share of challenges, be it both physical &amp; emotional. The rollercoaster of pregnancy is tough on its own, but having to fight to keep the balance of life &amp; sports was nothing short of strenuous, however worth it.</p>

<p>I’m writing this post to say that pride fills my being for securing my place in the round of 16! I’m lucky to have shared the trust of my husband @ibrahimihab11 and that of my family to be able to come this far," she added.</p>

<p>"This specific Olympics was different; Three times *Olympian* but this time carrying a little Olympian one! (heart emoji)."</p>

<p>The fencer, however, lost her round of 16 match 15-7 to South Korean Jeon Hayoung.</p>

<h3><strong>Brazilian surfer's gravity-defying image goes VIRAL</strong></h3>

<p>Photographer Jerome Brouillet, working with AFP, clicked Brazilian Olympic surfer Gabriel Medina paddle into one of the day’s biggest waves at one of the world’s heaviest surf breaks during the men's surfing Round 3 on Monday (July 29).</p>

<p>The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics/news-paris-olympics-brazilian-surfers-mindboggling-image-goes-viral-photographer-hailed-for-brilliant-capture-745839">moment of capture</a> is so brilliant that it shows the surfer leaping from his surfboard and raising his finger in celebration of his Olympic triumph, with his surfboard pointing skyward parallelly.</p>


Nada Hafez, the Egyptian fencer, played seven-month pregnant at the ongoing Paris Olympics 2024. The athlete revealed the news herself through an Instagram post on Tuesday (Jul 30).

Nada Hafez, the Egyptian fencer, played seven-month pregnant at the ongoing Paris Olympics 2024. The athlete revealed the news herself through an Instagram post on Tuesday (Jul 30). "What appears to you as two players on the podium, they were actually three! It was me, my competitor, & my yet-to-come to our world, little baby!," she wrote alongside a couple of her pictures after her match. Also Read: 'Nadalcaraz' have been suffering but....: Nadal's BIG claim on playing with Carlos Alcaraz in Paris Olympics She beat American Elizabeth Tartakovsky 15-13 in the first round to advance to Round of 16 match and shared the post later. "My baby & I had our fair share of challenges, be it both physical & emotional. The rollercoaster of pregnancy is tough on its own, but having to fight to keep the balance of life & sports was nothing short of strenuous, however worth it. I’m writing this post to say that pride fills my being for securing my place in the round of 16! I’m lucky to have shared the trust of my husband @ibrahimihab11 and that of my family to be able to come this far," she added. "This specific Olympics was different; Three times *Olympian* but this time carrying a little Olympian one! (heart emoji)." The fencer, however, lost her round of 16 match 15-7 to South Korean Jeon Hayoung. Brazilian surfer's gravity-defying image goes VIRAL Photographer Jerome Brouillet, working with AFP, clicked Brazilian Olympic surfer Gabriel Medina paddle into one of the day’s biggest waves at one of the world’s heaviest surf breaks during the men's surfing Round 3 on Monday (July 29). The moment of capture is so brilliant that it shows the surfer leaping from his surfboard and raising his finger in celebration of his Olympic triumph, with his surfboard pointing skyward parallelly.

Paris Olympics: 7-month pregnant athlete Nada Hafez's heartfelt post on participating with 'little Olympian'

Disadvantaged children in Rwanda take up the sport of fencing.

Fencing gaining popularity in Kigali, Rwanda

<p>In an ongoing clash between Texas state authorities and the US federal government, the country's Supreme Court, in a narrow 5-4 decision, has temporarily allowed Border Patrol agents to cut or remove razor-wire fencing strategically placed by Texas officials along a portion of the state's border with Mexico. The 5th US Circuit Court of Appeals, responsible for the disputed interim ruling, is scheduled to hear arguments on February 7 regarding whether Border Patrol agents breached Texas law.</p>

<p>This move was part of Texas's Operation Lone Star, which involved various deterrent measures, including the state's National Guard deployment and the controversial floating barrier over the Rio Grande.</p>

<p>The decision came in response to a request from President Joe Biden's administration, seeking to pause a lower court's ruling that had temporarily blocked federal agents from removing the fencing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Amy Coney Barrett, along with three liberal justices, formed the majority. Meanwhile, conservative Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, Neil Gorsuch, and Brett Kavanaugh dissented against the ruling which allowed fencing removal.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-navy-identifies-two-seals-lost-at-sea-during-raid-on-ship-carrying-iranian-weapons-682718">US Navy identifies two SEALs lost at sea during raid on ship carrying Iranian weapons</a></p>

<p>Texas had filed a lawsuit in October 2023, accusing the Biden administration of intensifying practices that damaged strategically placed fencing on private land. Following this, the state was able to get an emergency restraining order from a federal judge, resulting in the termination of actions by federal agents.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/chinas-state-owned-banks-rally-to-stabilise-yuan-amid-stock-market-turmoil-682703">China's state-owned banks rally to stabilise yuan amid stock market turmoil</a></p>

<p>Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, after the ruling said, “The Supreme Court’s temporary order allows Biden to continue his illegal effort to aid the foreign invasion of America."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/brazils-re-industrialisation-plan-682714">Brazil's 're-industrialisation' plan</a></strong></p>

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<p>“The destruction of Texas’s border barriers will not help enforce the law or keep American citizens safe. This fight is not over, and I look forward to defending our state’s sovereignty," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A White House spokesperson, while reacting to the decision, said,&nbsp;"Ultimately, we need adequate resources and policy changes to address our broken immigration system... That is why he (Biden) is working to find a bipartisan agreement with Congress that includes additional resources and meaningful policy reforms."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In an ongoing clash between Texas state authorities and the US federal government, the country's Supreme Court, in a narrow 5-4 decision, has temporarily allowed Border Patrol agents to cut or remove razor-wire fencing strategically placed by Texas officials along a portion of the state's border with Mexico.

In an ongoing clash between Texas state authorities and the US federal government, the country's Supreme Court, in a narrow 5-4 decision, has temporarily allowed Border Patrol agents to cut or remove razor-wire fencing strategically placed by Texas officials along a portion of the state's border with Mexico. The 5th US Circuit Court of Appeals, responsible for the disputed interim ruling, is scheduled to hear arguments on February 7 regarding whether Border Patrol agents breached Texas law. This move was part of Texas's Operation Lone Star, which involved various deterrent measures, including the state's National Guard deployment and the controversial floating barrier over the Rio Grande. The decision came in response to a request from President Joe Biden's administration, seeking to pause a lower court's ruling that had temporarily blocked federal agents from removing the fencing. Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Amy Coney Barrett, along with three liberal justices, formed the majority. Meanwhile, conservative Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, Neil Gorsuch, and Brett Kavanaugh dissented against the ruling which allowed fencing removal. Also Read | US Navy identifies two SEALs lost at sea during raid on ship carrying Iranian weapons Texas had filed a lawsuit in October 2023, accusing the Biden administration of intensifying practices that damaged strategically placed fencing on private land. Following this, the state was able to get an emergency restraining order from a federal judge, resulting in the termination of actions by federal agents. Also Read | China's state-owned banks rally to stabilise yuan amid stock market turmoil Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, after the ruling said, “The Supreme Court’s temporary order allows Biden to continue his illegal effort to aid the foreign invasion of America." Watch | Brazil's 're-industrialisation' plan × “The destruction of Texas’s border barriers will not help enforce the law or keep American citizens safe. This fight is not over, and I look forward to defending our state’s sovereignty," he added. A White House spokesperson, while reacting to the decision, said, "Ultimately, we need adequate resources and policy changes to address our broken immigration system... That is why he (Biden) is working to find a bipartisan agreement with Congress that includes additional resources and meaningful policy reforms." (With inputs from agencies)

Texas: SC grants temporary relief for removal of razor-wire fencing used to block border crossings

<p>India`s top fencer Bhavani Devi on Monday scripted history as she secured a bronze medal in the women`s sabre event at the Asian Fencing Championships. This remarkable achievement marked India`s first medal at the continental meet.<br />
<br />
Bhavani defeated the reigning world champion and world No.1 Misaki Emura of Japan 15-10 in the quarterfinals of the women`s sabre event. It was also the Indian`s first win over the Japanese in four meetings.&nbsp;The 29-year-old settled for bronze after suffering a close 15-14 loss to Uzbekistan`s world No.79 Zaynab Dayibekova in the semifinals.<br />
<br />
Earlier, the Indian fencer received a first-round bye. She got the better of world No.95 Dospay Karina of Kazakhstan 15-13 in the next round and stunned world No.40 and third seed Seri Ozaki of Japan 15-11 in the pre-quarterfinals.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-wimbledon-2023-carlos-alcaraz-hopes-to-quickly-adapt-to-grass-after-paris-disappointment-606173">Tennis: Wimbledon 2023 - Carlos Alcaraz hopes to quickly adapt to grass after Paris disappointment</a></strong></p>

<p>The 29-year-old became the first Indian fencer to represent India at the Olympic Games when she competed at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.</p>

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India`s top fencer Bhavani Devi on Monday scripted history as she secured a bronze medal in the women`s sabre event at the Asian Fencing Championships. This remarkable achievement marked India`s first medal at the continental meet.

India`s top fencer Bhavani Devi on Monday scripted history as she secured a bronze medal in the women`s sabre event at the Asian Fencing Championships. This remarkable achievement marked India`s first medal at the continental meet. Bhavani defeated the reigning world champion and world No.1 Misaki Emura of Japan 15-10 in the quarterfinals of the women`s sabre event. It was also the Indian`s first win over the Japanese in four meetings. The 29-year-old settled for bronze after suffering a close 15-14 loss to Uzbekistan`s world No.79 Zaynab Dayibekova in the semifinals. Earlier, the Indian fencer received a first-round bye. She got the better of world No.95 Dospay Karina of Kazakhstan 15-13 in the next round and stunned world No.40 and third seed Seri Ozaki of Japan 15-11 in the pre-quarterfinals. Also Read: Tennis: Wimbledon 2023 - Carlos Alcaraz hopes to quickly adapt to grass after Paris disappointment The 29-year-old became the first Indian fencer to represent India at the Olympic Games when she competed at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Bhavani Devi wins India's first ever medal at Asian Fencing Championships

<p>A fencing World Cup event in Poland has been cancelled by the local federation after the sport's international governing body rejected a proposal to make Russian and Belarusian athletes sign a statement opposing the invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p>The Polish fencing federation (PZS) cancelled the women's foil World Cup scheduled for April 21-23 in Poznan after the international fencing federation (FIE) reversed a ban on athletes from Russia and its ally Belarus at last month's extraordinary congress.</p>

<p>"We wanted all players and collaborators who were going to come to our World Cup to sign a statement that they oppose the regime of Vladimir Putin," PZS general secretary Jacek Slupski told Reuters on Friday. "That they oppose the aggression of Russia and Belarus against Ukraine and they are not current professional soldiers nor do they work in any other security organs of either of these countries.</p>

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<p>"Unfortunately, the International Fencing Federation has rejected our internal procedures, it did not allow any internal procedures to be used, only to comply with the procedures set by the world federation. This is unacceptable to us." The FIE decision prompted Ukraine's fencing federation (NFFU) to say it would boycott all events in which Russians and Belarusians were included, while hundreds of fencers publicly opposed the FIE's decision in an open letter.</p>

<p>Organisers in Germany and Denmark have also cancelled FIE events. Slupski said they may appeal the FIE Congress's decision in the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) and have received support from other countries.</p>

<p>"We received a lot of warm words and congratulations... from many Western countries, that our attitude was very brave ... and that they join our official, tough position," Slupski said. "These are mainly Scandinavian countries Finland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark. We await confirmation from Germany, France. I think Spain, Portugal. "We do not rule out a joint lawsuit to the court (CAS) in Lausanne and an appeal against the decision of the FIE Congress."</p>


A fencing World Cup event in Poland has been cancelled by the local federation after the sport's international governing body rejected a proposal to make Russian and Belarusian athletes sign a statement opposing the invasion of Ukraine.

A fencing World Cup event in Poland has been cancelled by the local federation after the sport's international governing body rejected a proposal to make Russian and Belarusian athletes sign a statement opposing the invasion of Ukraine. The Polish fencing federation (PZS) cancelled the women's foil World Cup scheduled for April 21-23 in Poznan after the international fencing federation (FIE) reversed a ban on athletes from Russia and its ally Belarus at last month's extraordinary congress. "We wanted all players and collaborators who were going to come to our World Cup to sign a statement that they oppose the regime of Vladimir Putin," PZS general secretary Jacek Slupski told Reuters on Friday. "That they oppose the aggression of Russia and Belarus against Ukraine and they are not current professional soldiers nor do they work in any other security organs of either of these countries. Also read: WWE: Tension likely to rise within The Bloodline on upcoming SmackDown episode "Unfortunately, the International Fencing Federation has rejected our internal procedures, it did not allow any internal procedures to be used, only to comply with the procedures set by the world federation. This is unacceptable to us." The FIE decision prompted Ukraine's fencing federation (NFFU) to say it would boycott all events in which Russians and Belarusians were included, while hundreds of fencers publicly opposed the FIE's decision in an open letter. Organisers in Germany and Denmark have also cancelled FIE events. Slupski said they may appeal the FIE Congress's decision in the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) and have received support from other countries. "We received a lot of warm words and congratulations... from many Western countries, that our attitude was very brave ... and that they join our official, tough position," Slupski said. "These are mainly Scandinavian countries Finland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark. We await confirmation from Germany, France. I think Spain, Portugal. "We do not rule out a joint lawsuit to the court (CAS) in Lausanne and an appeal against the decision of the FIE Congress."

Fencing: World Cup event cancelled as federation turns down proposal on Russian athletes

<p>CA Bhavani Devi, the first Indian fencer to participate at the Olympics, on Monday received her Arjuna Award from Sports Minister Anurag Thakur.</p>

<p>The 28-year-old Bhavani could not attend the sports awards ceremony on Saturday as she was participating in a competition in France.</p>

<p>However, on her return to the country, the fencer met Thakur who honoured her with the award.</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-neeraj-chopra-to-mithali-raj-list-of-athletes-who-won-major-dhyan-chand-khel-ratna-award-in-2021-429094">From Neeraj Chopra to Mithali Raj: List of athletes who won Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award in 2021</a></strong></p>

<p>"Holding the Arjuna Award was My Childhood Dream, and today, it happened. I am so much Emotional. Work Hard &amp; Play for the Country. One day, the country will pay back. Thank YOU," Bhavani tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Holding the Arjuna Award 🏹 was My Childhood Dream, and today, it happened. I am so much Emotional 😢<br />
<br />
Work Hard &amp; Play for the Country. One day, the country will pay back.<br />
Thank YOU 🇮🇳 🙏 <a href="https://t.co/iL4OssYKmo">pic.twitter.com/iL4OssYKmo</a></p>
— C A Bhavani Devi (@IamBhavaniDevi) <a href="https://twitter.com/IamBhavaniDevi/status/1460261525365661697?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>In the Tokyo Olympics in July this year, she won her round of 64 match against Tunisia's Nadia Ben Azizi 15-3 before going down to eventual bronze-medallist Manon Brunet of France in the round of 32.</p>

<p>In October, Bhavani won the Charleville National Competition in France, in the women's sabre individual event.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-shikhar-dhawan-to-ankita-raina-a-look-at-players-who-won-prestigious-arjuna-award-this-year-429127">From Shikhar Dhawan to Ankita Raina: A look at players who won prestigious Arjuna award this year</a></strong></p>

<p>Olympic champion javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra, India opener Shikhar Dhawan, veteran woman cricketer Mithali Raj and history-making Paralympic stars shared the spotlight as an unprecedented 12 sportspersons were presented with India's highest sporting honour -- the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna -- by President Ram Nath Kovind here on Saturday.</p>

<p>In a glittering function organised at the Durbar Hall of the Rashtrapati Bhawan, the President also bestowed 35 sportspersons with the Arjuna award as he recognised the country's unparalleled Olympic and Paralympic performances this year.&nbsp;</p>


CA Bhavani Devi, the first Indian fencer to participate at the Olympics, on Monday received her Arjuna Award from Sports Minister Anurag Thakur. The 28-year-old Bhavani could not attend the sports awards ceremony on Saturday as she was participating in a competition in France.

CA Bhavani Devi, the first Indian fencer to participate at the Olympics, on Monday received her Arjuna Award from Sports Minister Anurag Thakur. The 28-year-old Bhavani could not attend the sports awards ceremony on Saturday as she was participating in a competition in France. However, on her return to the country, the fencer met Thakur who honoured her with the award. IN PICS: From Neeraj Chopra to Mithali Raj: List of athletes who won Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award in 2021 "Holding the Arjuna Award was My Childhood Dream, and today, it happened. I am so much Emotional. Work Hard & Play for the Country. One day, the country will pay back. Thank YOU," Bhavani tweeted. Holding the Arjuna Award 🏹 was My Childhood Dream, and today, it happened. I am so much Emotional 😢 Work Hard & Play for the Country. One day, the country will pay back. Thank YOU 🇮🇳 🙏 pic.twitter.com/iL4OssYKmo — C A Bhavani Devi (@IamBhavaniDevi) November 15, 2021 × In the Tokyo Olympics in July this year, she won her round of 64 match against Tunisia's Nadia Ben Azizi 15-3 before going down to eventual bronze-medallist Manon Brunet of France in the round of 32. In October, Bhavani won the Charleville National Competition in France, in the women's sabre individual event. ALSO READ: From Shikhar Dhawan to Ankita Raina: A look at players who won prestigious Arjuna award this year Olympic champion javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra, India opener Shikhar Dhawan, veteran woman cricketer Mithali Raj and history-making Paralympic stars shared the spotlight as an unprecedented 12 sportspersons were presented with India's highest sporting honour -- the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna -- by President Ram Nath Kovind here on Saturday. In a glittering function organised at the Durbar Hall of the Rashtrapati Bhawan, the President also bestowed 35 sportspersons with the Arjuna award as he recognised the country's unparalleled Olympic and Paralympic performances this year.

Olympian fencer CA Bhavani Devi conferred with Arjuna Award by Anurag Thakur in a special event

<p>Argentinian fencer Maria Belen&nbsp;Perez&nbsp;Maurice suffered 'heartbreak' in the women's sabre at Tokyo Olympics 2020 but her coach might have managed to mend it after a dramatic marriage proposal just after she lost to Anna Marton of Hungary in the last 32 on July 26.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moments after the defeat, when Maria was giving an interview to the media, her coach Lucas Guillermo Saucedo, who is also her boyfriend of 17 years, flashed a handwritten sign that read "Will you marry me? Please". The epic moment was aired live on TV and the footage went viral on social media as Maria said "YES".</p>

<p><strong>WATCH:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-mirabai-chanu-reacts-to-video-of-small-girl-mimicking-her-silver-winning-moment-watch-400920">Mirabai Chanu reacts to video of small girl mimicking her silver-winning moment</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="es">Y después del combate de esgrima le pidieron casamiento a María Belén Pérez Maurice en vivo. <a href="https://t.co/wEmGuOW7CB">pic.twitter.com/wEmGuOW7CB</a></p>
— Rústico (@lautarojl) <a href="https://twitter.com/lautarojl/status/1419491454335045635?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>While speaking to the media, Maria said, "They [the interviewer] told me to turn around, and he had the letter. I forgot everything. I was like: 'Oh my God'".&nbsp;</p>

<p>She further added, "We are very happy. We are very good partners. Of course, we have fights, but we enjoy each other's time. We love each other so much, and we want to spend our lives together." We are going to celebrate in Buenos Aires with a big barbecue."</p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CR0OJpaMjie/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by M. Belén Pérez Maurice (@belenperezmaurice)</a></p>
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<p>Apparently, this was the second attempt by Saucedo, as his 2010 proposal was rebuffed but he decided to propose again on Monday morning and asked a volunteer at the venue for a sheet of paper to write his proposal.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-rupinder-pal-singh-strikes-twice-as-india-defeat-spain-3-0-in-pool-a-clash-400867">Tokyo Olympics: Rupinder Pal Singh strikes twice as India defeat Spain 3-0 in Pool A clash</a></strong></p>

<p>Saucedo, who met Maria through fencing, had represented Argentina in fencing himself before becoming a coach.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the COVID-19 guidelines, the couple is unable to immediately leave the Olympic Village, the honeymoon will have to wait.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/tokyo-olympics">here</a>&nbsp;for all Tokyo Olympics updates!</p>


Argentinian fencer Maria Belen Perez Maurice suffered 'heartbreak' in the women's sabre at Tokyo Olympics 2020 but her coach might have managed to mend it after a dramatic marriage proposal just after she lost to Anna Marton of Hungary in the last 32 on July 26.

Argentinian fencer Maria Belen Perez Maurice suffered 'heartbreak' in the women's sabre at Tokyo Olympics 2020 but her coach might have managed to mend it after a dramatic marriage proposal just after she lost to Anna Marton of Hungary in the last 32 on July 26. Moments after the defeat, when Maria was giving an interview to the media, her coach Lucas Guillermo Saucedo, who is also her boyfriend of 17 years, flashed a handwritten sign that read "Will you marry me? Please". The epic moment was aired live on TV and the footage went viral on social media as Maria said "YES". WATCH: Mirabai Chanu reacts to video of small girl mimicking her silver-winning moment Watch the video here: Y después del combate de esgrima le pidieron casamiento a María Belén Pérez Maurice en vivo. pic.twitter.com/wEmGuOW7CB — Rústico (@lautarojl) July 26, 2021 × While speaking to the media, Maria said, "They [the interviewer] told me to turn around, and he had the letter. I forgot everything. I was like: 'Oh my God'". She further added, "We are very happy. We are very good partners. Of course, we have fights, but we enjoy each other's time. We love each other so much, and we want to spend our lives together." We are going to celebrate in Buenos Aires with a big barbecue." View this post on Instagram A post shared by M. Belén Pérez Maurice (@belenperezmaurice) × Apparently, this was the second attempt by Saucedo, as his 2010 proposal was rebuffed but he decided to propose again on Monday morning and asked a volunteer at the venue for a sheet of paper to write his proposal. Also Read: Tokyo Olympics: Rupinder Pal Singh strikes twice as India defeat Spain 3-0 in Pool A clash Saucedo, who met Maria through fencing, had represented Argentina in fencing himself before becoming a coach. As per the COVID-19 guidelines, the couple is unable to immediately leave the Olympic Village, the honeymoon will have to wait. Click here for all Tokyo Olympics updates!

Tokyo Olympics: Argentinian fencer gets dramatic marriage proposal just after losing her match - Watch

<p>Fencing is one of the games that has been a part of each edition of the Olympic Games and on Monday in Tokyo, Bhavani Devi became the first Indian to participate in it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bhavani Devi, turned into the first Indian to qualify for the Olympics, and she began Day Three of the Tokyo Games for India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In her white-saber and wire-coincided mask, she entered India's sporting annals for getting this far.</p>

<p>Her FIE rank is 42 and she is seeded 29 at the Games out of 36 rivals in her category.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="Tokyo Olympics opening draws 16.7 million US TV viewers, a 33-year low">Tokyo Olympics opening draws 16.7 million US TV viewers, a 33-year low</a></p>

<p>It was a relentless attack by Bhavani Devi ever since the&nbsp;bout started. Eventually, she managed to score the first 15 points and won the bout.</p>

<p>Bhavani Devi gave herself a phenomenal beginning. The Indian was on the attack from the word go and never allowed her Tunisian rival any opportunity to get it together in the clash.</p>

<p>At the halfway stage, Bhavani earned herself an 8-0 lead.</p>

<p>She figured out how to score the 15 points and advanced to the following round.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In her next round, Bhavani Devi will be facing Manon Brunet. In this competition, Brunet is the fourth seed while Bhavani is 29th.</p>


Fencing is one of the games that has been a part of each edition of the Olympic Games and on Monday in Tokyo, Bhavani Devi became the first Indian to participate in it.

Fencing is one of the games that has been a part of each edition of the Olympic Games and on Monday in Tokyo, Bhavani Devi became the first Indian to participate in it. Bhavani Devi, turned into the first Indian to qualify for the Olympics, and she began Day Three of the Tokyo Games for India. In her white-saber and wire-coincided mask, she entered India's sporting annals for getting this far. Her FIE rank is 42 and she is seeded 29 at the Games out of 36 rivals in her category. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics opening draws 16.7 million US TV viewers, a 33-year low It was a relentless attack by Bhavani Devi ever since the bout started. Eventually, she managed to score the first 15 points and won the bout. Bhavani Devi gave herself a phenomenal beginning. The Indian was on the attack from the word go and never allowed her Tunisian rival any opportunity to get it together in the clash. At the halfway stage, Bhavani earned herself an 8-0 lead. She figured out how to score the 15 points and advanced to the following round. In her next round, Bhavani Devi will be facing Manon Brunet. In this competition, Brunet is the fourth seed while Bhavani is 29th.

Tokyo Olympics: Indian Fencer Bhavani Devi trounces Tunisia's Ben Azizi on debut

<p>India got going Day 3 at the 2021 Olympics in style. Saber fencer Bhavani Devi scripted history by turning into the first Indian to win a bout in Fencing at the Olympics.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A 9-time national champion entered the Round of 32 fixtures. Her strength against her Tunisian rival was incredible to watch.</p>

<p>But, she could not go past the round of 32. She was beaten by the World No. 3 Manon Brunet. She set up a bold presentation and dazzled numerous with her forceful gameplay.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She easily won her initially round game 15-3 however staggered in the following.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Past note-worthy accolades</h3>

<p>She became the first Indian Fencer to win a Gold award at the International competition Satellite World Cup. She has won five awards at the International Satellite occasions to date.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She is also the first Indian to win an Individual award at Asian U-23 titles in 2014 and 2015</p>

<p>And also the first-ever Indian Fencer to make it to the Top 16 at the International Fencing Federation World title.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Big Day 🤺<br />
It was Excitement &amp; Emotional.<br />
I won the First Match 15/3 against Nadia Azizi and become the First INDIAN Fencing Player to win a Match at Olympic but 2nd Match I lost 7/15 against world top 3 player Manon Brunet. I did my level best but couldn't win.<br />
I am sorry 🙏 🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/TNTtw7oLgO">pic.twitter.com/TNTtw7oLgO</a></p>
— C A Bhavani Devi (@IamBhavaniDevi) <a href="https://twitter.com/IamBhavaniDevi/status/1419538366123503619?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-indian-fencer-bhavani-devi-trounces-tunisias-ben-azizi-on-debut-400622" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: Indian Fencer Bhavani Devi trounces Tunisia's Ben Azizi on debut</a></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thank you so much i will come back much stronger and successful at Next Olympics with all your Prayers 🙏<br />
Jai Hind 🇮🇳</p>
— C A Bhavani Devi (@IamBhavaniDevi) <a href="https://twitter.com/IamBhavaniDevi/status/1419538381327900673?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>She introduced the sport to many Indians today and fought hard, but was unfortunately knocked out.</p>

<p>Bhavani Devi tweeted an emotional post for avid supporters after she was knocked out following a battle in her second match. She wrote, “Big day. It was upbeat and emotional. I won the first match 15/3 against Nadia Ajizi and became the first Indian fencing player to win a match at the Olympics, but I lost the second match 7/15 against Manon Brunet, the world’s top 3 player. I did my best but could not win. I apologise.”</p>


India got going Day 3 at the 2021 Olympics in style. Saber fencer Bhavani Devi scripted history by turning into the first Indian to win a bout in Fencing at the Olympics.

India got going Day 3 at the 2021 Olympics in style. Saber fencer Bhavani Devi scripted history by turning into the first Indian to win a bout in Fencing at the Olympics. A 9-time national champion entered the Round of 32 fixtures. Her strength against her Tunisian rival was incredible to watch. But, she could not go past the round of 32. She was beaten by the World No. 3 Manon Brunet. She set up a bold presentation and dazzled numerous with her forceful gameplay. She easily won her initially round game 15-3 however staggered in the following. Past note-worthy accolades She became the first Indian Fencer to win a Gold award at the International competition Satellite World Cup. She has won five awards at the International Satellite occasions to date. She is also the first Indian to win an Individual award at Asian U-23 titles in 2014 and 2015 And also the first-ever Indian Fencer to make it to the Top 16 at the International Fencing Federation World title. Big Day 🤺 It was Excitement & Emotional. I won the First Match 15/3 against Nadia Azizi and become the First INDIAN Fencing Player to win a Match at Olympic but 2nd Match I lost 7/15 against world top 3 player Manon Brunet. I did my level best but couldn't win. I am sorry 🙏 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/TNTtw7oLgO — C A Bhavani Devi (@IamBhavaniDevi) July 26, 2021 × ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Indian Fencer Bhavani Devi trounces Tunisia's Ben Azizi on debut Thank you so much i will come back much stronger and successful at Next Olympics with all your Prayers 🙏 Jai Hind 🇮🇳 — C A Bhavani Devi (@IamBhavaniDevi) July 26, 2021 × She introduced the sport to many Indians today and fought hard, but was unfortunately knocked out. Bhavani Devi tweeted an emotional post for avid supporters after she was knocked out following a battle in her second match. She wrote, “Big day. It was upbeat and emotional. I won the first match 15/3 against Nadia Ajizi and became the first Indian fencing player to win a match at the Olympics, but I lost the second match 7/15 against Manon Brunet, the world’s top 3 player. I did my best but could not win. I apologise.”

Tokyo 2020: 'It was excitement and emotional', Bhavani Devi articulates her run at the Olympics

<p>Japan's top fencer Ryo Miyake has been delivering Uber Eats to keep up with his finances for his fitness and training after the Tokyo Olympics got postponed due to coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/the-bundesliga-is-back-so-can-dortmund-catch-bayern-298374" hreflang="en">The Bundesliga is back, so can Dortmund catch Bayern?</a></p>

<p>The Olympics were postponed after the International Olympic Committee and the Japanese government decided to delay the games for a year due to coronavirus outbreak.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Miyake won a silver medal for the men's team in London 2012 and he had tonnes of sponsors backing him for Tokyo games. But due to postponement, he could not accept sponsor money in good conscience.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serena-eager-to-return-after-lockdown-break-298372" hreflang="en">Serena eager to return after lockdown break</a></p>

<p>"It is still unclear how and in what situation I will become an Olympian," said Miyake&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I thought it was a little impudent to receive support in such a situation, so I told them (sponsors) to hold (sponsorship) for the time being."</p>

<p>All gyms in Japan have been shut due to the pandemic, so by cycling his way during his deliveries, he not only wants to make money but also maintains his fitness.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Miyake earns about $18.60 per day which is enough for him to survive and save without sponsorship money. He also is looking for other jobs to increase the amount.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said: "Now I am digging into my savings for a living, so I have to earn money by myself."</p>

<p>"I also thought by doing Uber Eats delivery, it can prevent my physical strength from weakening."</p>

<p>The demand for Uber Eats has significantly increased due to the lockdown but Miyake is not worried about getting infected. He said: "The risk of getting infected with the coronavirus is low," said Miyake.</p>

<p>"Although you might think you have a lot of contact with people because you deliver goods, as recommended by the application I put the food in front of people's doors and there is no contact."</p>

<p>"The only time I have contact is when I pick up food from the restaurant’s staff."</p>

<p>Miyake was still in the process for qualifying for Olympics when the games were put on halt, it is uncertain for him. He has no clue when will he pick up the rapier and start fencing again.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Fencing is a sport that doesn't fit with the current situation because we can't practise without having people gathered together," he said.</p>

<p>"This is regrettable."</p>

<p>"I want to restart with a situation where everyone can train freely and without any concern."</p>


Japan's top fencer Ryo Miyake has been delivering Uber Eats to keep up with his finances for his fitness and training after the Tokyo Olympics got postponed due to coronavirus pandemic.

Japan's top fencer Ryo Miyake has been delivering Uber Eats to keep up with his finances for his fitness and training after the Tokyo Olympics got postponed due to coronavirus pandemic. Also read: The Bundesliga is back, so can Dortmund catch Bayern? The Olympics were postponed after the International Olympic Committee and the Japanese government decided to delay the games for a year due to coronavirus outbreak. Miyake won a silver medal for the men's team in London 2012 and he had tonnes of sponsors backing him for Tokyo games. But due to postponement, he could not accept sponsor money in good conscience. Also read: Serena eager to return after lockdown break "It is still unclear how and in what situation I will become an Olympian," said Miyake "I thought it was a little impudent to receive support in such a situation, so I told them (sponsors) to hold (sponsorship) for the time being." All gyms in Japan have been shut due to the pandemic, so by cycling his way during his deliveries, he not only wants to make money but also maintains his fitness. Miyake earns about $18.60 per day which is enough for him to survive and save without sponsorship money. He also is looking for other jobs to increase the amount. He said: "Now I am digging into my savings for a living, so I have to earn money by myself." "I also thought by doing Uber Eats delivery, it can prevent my physical strength from weakening." The demand for Uber Eats has significantly increased due to the lockdown but Miyake is not worried about getting infected. He said: "The risk of getting infected with the coronavirus is low," said Miyake. "Although you might think you have a lot of contact with people because you deliver goods, as recommended by the application I put the food in front of people's doors and there is no contact." "The only time I have contact is when I pick up food from the restaurant’s staff." Miyake was still in the process for qualifying for Olympics when the games were put on halt, it is uncertain for him. He has no clue when will he pick up the rapier and start fencing again. "Fencing is a sport that doesn't fit with the current situation because we can't practise without having people gathered together," he said. "This is regrettable." "I want to restart with a situation where everyone can train freely and without any concern."

Japan's silver-medalist fencer peddles his way to bear expenses due to delay in Olympics

Fencer Ibtihaj Muhammad is aiming to drive her sabre through bigotry when she becomes the first American athlete to compete at the Olympics wearing a hijab.<br />
<br />
The articulate 30-year-old African-American Muslim was catapulted to prominence in January after clinching her place on the US Olympic team at the World Cup in Greece.<br />
<br />
Muhammad&#39;s participation in Rio comes in the midst of a US presidential election campaign marked by anti-Islamic rhetoric while incidents of threats and vandalism at mosques reached an all-time high last year.<br />
<br />
The ugly atmosphere is all-too familiar for Muhammad, who has faced discrimination since childhood, when her skin color and hijab would often draw stares or abuse.<br />
<br />
Indeed, part of the attraction of fencing was the fact that Muhammad could blend in more or less seamlessly.<br />
<br />
&quot;I played different sports growing up and my mum and I just happened to be driving past a high school and saw fencing from the car window,&quot; she recalled.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
&quot;She saw that the athletes had on long tops and long pants and she didn`t know what the sport was but she wanted me to try it because she thought it would be accommodating for my religious beliefs.&quot;<br />
<br />
Muhammad was unconvinced at first but persisted when she realized the sport could be a passport to a college education.<br />
<br />
&quot;I saw that the top 10 schools in the country all had fencing programs so I saw fencing as a way for me to get to school so that&#39;s why I stuck at it initially,&quot; said Muhammad, who graduated from prestigious Duke University in 2007 with a degree in International Relations and African Studies.<br />
<br />
Muhammad hopes that her Olympic journey may play a small role in shifting the kinds of attitudes that have surfaced during the US election campaign.<br />
<br />
&quot;It&#39;s a tough political environment that we&#39;re in right now, it&#39;s not easy,&quot; Muhammad said.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
&quot;Muslims are under the microscope and I&#39;m hoping to change the image that people may have of Muslim women.<br />
<br />
&quot;I know that Muslim women are very, very diverse, especially here in the United States. We come in all different shapes, colors and sizes and we come from different backgrounds and are productive members of society. I want people to see that.&quot;<br />
<br />
Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump has been accused of fueling anti-Islamic sentiment, pointedly calling for Muslims to be prevented from entering the United States in December last year.<br />
<br />
Muhammad diplomatically declined to speculate on what life for American Muslims might be like if Trump is elected to the White House in November.<br />
<br />
&quot;I hate to talk about what ifs,&quot; she said. &quot;I&#39;m hoping we can change direction a little bit and see Muslims in more of a positive light and try to combat the negative imagery that we are shown every day. Can I influence the debate? I don&#39;t know. I&#39;m just trying to do well in Rio&#39;&#39;.<br />
<br />
The toxic climate has brought practical concerns. After several stories involving Muslims being barred from boarding planes, Muhammad revealed she had harbored fears of suffering a similar fate during qualifiers for Rio.<br />
<br />
&quot;When Muslims were being kicked off flights in the middle of Olympic qualifiers that was a real worry, am I going to be allowed to board my flight to make it to my Olympic qualifier?&quot;<br />
<br />
The fact that she is expected to speak about weighty issues relating to her race, religion and gender rather than merely her sport does sometimes take its toll, Muhammad acknowledged.<br />
<br />
&quot;It&#39;s something I struggle with every day. But ultimately I feel incredibly blessed to have been given this platform. And when I think of my predecessors and people who have spoken out against bigotry and hate, I feel like I owe it not just to myself but to my community to try to fight it,&quot; she said.<br />
<br />
&quot;You have to not just think about yourself, but everyone. And there are people in America right now who don&#39;t feel safe going to work every day, who don&#39;t feel safe in their community. That&#39;s a problem.<br />
<br />
&quot;I remember being a kid and people telling me I didn&#39;t belong in my sport because of my skin color, because I was Muslim. So if I can be a source of change for other minorities I feel fortunate to be able to do that.&quot;<br />
<br />
(AFP)

Fencer Ibtihaj Muhammad participation in Rio comes in the midst of a US presidential election campaign marked by anti-Islamic rhetoric

Fencer Ibtihaj Muhammad is aiming to drive her sabre through bigotry when she becomes the first American athlete to compete at the Olympics wearing a hijab. The articulate 30-year-old African-American Muslim was catapulted to prominence in January after clinching her place on the US Olympic team at the World Cup in Greece. Muhammad's participation in Rio comes in the midst of a US presidential election campaign marked by anti-Islamic rhetoric while incidents of threats and vandalism at mosques reached an all-time high last year. The ugly atmosphere is all-too familiar for Muhammad, who has faced discrimination since childhood, when her skin color and hijab would often draw stares or abuse. Indeed, part of the attraction of fencing was the fact that Muhammad could blend in more or less seamlessly. "I played different sports growing up and my mum and I just happened to be driving past a high school and saw fencing from the car window," she recalled. "She saw that the athletes had on long tops and long pants and she didn`t know what the sport was but she wanted me to try it because she thought it would be accommodating for my religious beliefs." Muhammad was unconvinced at first but persisted when she realized the sport could be a passport to a college education. "I saw that the top 10 schools in the country all had fencing programs so I saw fencing as a way for me to get to school so that's why I stuck at it initially," said Muhammad, who graduated from prestigious Duke University in 2007 with a degree in International Relations and African Studies. Muhammad hopes that her Olympic journey may play a small role in shifting the kinds of attitudes that have surfaced during the US election campaign. "It's a tough political environment that we're in right now, it's not easy," Muhammad said. "Muslims are under the microscope and I'm hoping to change the image that people may have of Muslim women. "I know that Muslim women are very, very diverse, especially here in the United States. We come in all different shapes, colors and sizes and we come from different backgrounds and are productive members of society. I want people to see that." Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump has been accused of fueling anti-Islamic sentiment, pointedly calling for Muslims to be prevented from entering the United States in December last year. Muhammad diplomatically declined to speculate on what life for American Muslims might be like if Trump is elected to the White House in November. "I hate to talk about what ifs," she said. "I'm hoping we can change direction a little bit and see Muslims in more of a positive light and try to combat the negative imagery that we are shown every day. Can I influence the debate? I don't know. I'm just trying to do well in Rio''. The toxic climate has brought practical concerns. After several stories involving Muslims being barred from boarding planes, Muhammad revealed she had harbored fears of suffering a similar fate during qualifiers for Rio. "When Muslims were being kicked off flights in the middle of Olympic qualifiers that was a real worry, am I going to be allowed to board my flight to make it to my Olympic qualifier?" The fact that she is expected to speak about weighty issues relating to her race, religion and gender rather than merely her sport does sometimes take its toll, Muhammad acknowledged. "It's something I struggle with every day. But ultimately I feel incredibly blessed to have been given this platform. And when I think of my predecessors and people who have spoken out against bigotry and hate, I feel like I owe it not just to myself but to my community to try to fight it," she said. "You have to not just think about yourself, but everyone. And there are people in America right now who don't feel safe going to work every day, who don't feel safe in their community. That's a problem. "I remember being a kid and people telling me I didn't belong in my sport because of my skin color, because I was Muslim. So if I can be a source of change for other minorities I feel fortunate to be able to do that." (AFP)

American athlete to compete at the Olympics wearing a hijab

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