Fencer An defends SEA Games gold title
It was a day of more than just sabre-rattling for Vũ Thành An as he successfully defended his title in the 31st SEA Games men’s individual sabre fencing event in Hà Nội on May 13.
The ASEAN top fencing athlete showed his domination by beating Thailand's Srinualnad Voragun 15-7 in the final.
Earlier, he pocketed four wins in the group round and three in the knockout round including a 15-11 victory over another Thai, Ruangrit Haekerd, in the semi-finals.
“This victory is for all Vietnamese supporters,” An said.
“I have never competed in such a wonderful environment with strong and warm-hearted encouragement from fans. Losing or earning points I still heard people shout loud ‘Come on Việt Nam!’ It was great. It must be the happiest tournament in my life,” said An of his sixth gold in four SEA Games.
An said he was moved by the title because he had worked really hard in pandemic conditions that had prevented him from earning enough points for the Tokyo Olympics.
“Coming to this Games, I did not have much information about my rivals while they knew me very well. They studied my style and advantages and disadvantages to try to find way to beat me,” said An who will welcome his second baby later this year.
“I tried hard, they were determined too. If they lost, it would be normal. If they win, they are honoured. This is sport!
“So I have to do it better than everyone to defend my title.”
Coach Phạm Anh Tuấn could not hide his happiness seeing his athlete top the podium.
“An is on a different level compared to all athletes in the region. I believe that he will continue to win in Games to come,” Tuấn said of his 29-year-old swordsman.
On the first day of fencing, An’s teammate Nguyễn Xuân Lợi also competed in the men’s sabre event but lost in the quarter-finals.
In the women’s epee, Nguyễn Phương Kim ended her journey in the group round. While Vũ Thị Hồng lost to Koh Elle Meihui of Singapore in the semi-final.
Hồng took bronze while Meihui went on to beat Abdul Rahman Kiria Tikanah in an all-singapore final to take the gold.
Fencers will take part in the women’s foil and men’s epee events today.