Hong Kong Olympic champion Vivian Kong to ‘take a break’ from fencing after 20-year career
- Vivian Kong posts message to social media announcing decision to focus on other areas, thanks ‘fencing family’ for support
Gold medal-winning Hong Kong épéeist Vivian Kong Man-wai is taking a break from professional fencing after the Paris Games to focus on a new career, with fans and officials wishing her well for the next chapter.
The city’s No 2 official, Eric Chan Kwok-ki, said it was a pity to see Kong step away from the sport but he hoped she would take up coaching to pass on her experience and provide guidance to local fencing talent.
The 30-year-old fencing queen announced her decision on Instagram and Facebook on Sunday after competing in her third Olympic Games.
Kong made history in Paris by becoming the first woman from the city to win fencing gold, and her triumph was followed 48 hours later by Cheung Ka-long’s successful defence of his foil title.
“I’m so grateful to have had the chance to dedicate almost 20 years of my life to fencing and thank you for being a part of this journey,” she wrote.
“After competing in my third Olympics, I have decided to take a break from professional fencing. I want to learn, grow, and give back to Hong Kong to the best of my abilities.
