African Fencing Championships: El-Sayed Retains Title As Amr Claims First Continental Gold

African Fencing Championships: El-Sayed Retains Title As Amr Claims First Continental Gold

Ibrahim Latest

Defending champion Mohamed El-Sayed retained his title in the Men’s Individual Épée event. At the same time, the 23rd African Fencing Championships, compatriot Sara Amr celebrated her first continental victory in the Women’s Individual Foil on Wednesday, June 25, at Charterhouse Lagos, reports BSNSports.com.ng.

World No. 1 El-Sayed edged out fellow Egyptian Mahmoud Had Mohsen in a closely contested final, winning 11–10 to become the first gold medalist of the tournament.

El-Sayed dominated the early rounds but faced a significant challenge in the semifinals, narrowly defeating his brother, Mahmoud El-Sayed, with a score of 15–14 in a thrilling match.

In the women’s foil category, second seed Sara Amr captured her first African title with a commanding 15–8 victory over Côte d'Ivoire’s Isabel Esteban in the final.

Amr had previously defeated her compatriot and 2024 bronze medalist, Noha Hany, 15–13 in the semifinals.

Esteban, who caused a major upset by defeating top seed Malak Hamza of Egypt 15–8 in another semifinal, settled for silver after falling short against Amr in the final.

Speaking after her victory, a jubilant Amr reflected on her experience throughout the competition, saying, “I focused on staying calm and managing each match one at a time. It wasn’t easy, but I’m proud of how I handled the pressure.”