In sheer determination and skill, Hong Kong’s Vivian Kong Man Wai etched her name into Olympic history on July 28, clinching the city’s third-ever gold medal at the Paris Olympics.
The victory was all the more remarkable as it came against the formidable world No. 1, France’s Auriane Mallo-Breton, in the women’s épée finals.
The stage was set for a dramatic showdown, with the French crowd roaring in support of their champion and even President Emmanuel Macron in attendance, adding to the electric atmosphere.
Breton seemed to have the upper hand early on, surging to a commanding 7-1 lead. However, Kong was not to be underestimated.
Electrifying finish for Hong Kong’s Vivian Kong
In a display of resilience that captivated viewers worldwide, Kong began her comeback, slowly but surely chipping away at Breton’s lead. The tension was palpable as the score reached 12-12, setting the stage for an electrifying finish. It was Kong who struck the decisive blow during extra frames, securing a narrow 13-12 victory that sent shockwaves through the arena.
“I didn’t want to lose so badly,” Kong shared after the match, her determination evident. “I didn’t want to give up without showing the Hong Kong spirit.”
1st Hong Kong female gold medallist
Kong’s triumph is not just a personal milestone but a historic moment for Hong Kong. She became the first female fencer from the city to win an Olympic gold medal, following in the footsteps of legendary windsurfer Lee Lai-shan, who won Hong Kong’s first-ever gold at the Atlanta Olympics in 1996, and fencer Cheung Ka-long, who secured the city’s second gold in men’s foil at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
The impressive victory was commended by the city’s leader, John Lee, and the residents were thrilled about securing such an early triumph in the Olympic Games.
As Hong Kong celebrates this remarkable achievement, Kong’s victory serves as an inspiring reminder of the power of perseverance and the indomitable spirit of a true Olympian.