The women's fencing team aiming to add to Hungary's historic legacy

Fencing is Hungary's most successful Olympic sport. Prior to Paris 2024, the country had won 521 medals across the Summer and Winter Games; of these, 90 came in fencing, including 38 golds. Only France and Italy have won more fencing medals, and more golds, than the Hungarians. 

That gives the current women's team a huge legacy to live up to – but with a history of winning multiple international medals, they're ready for the task and laser-focused on securing more podium positions in Paris, to join the nation's pantheon of fencing legends.

"When I put on the mask and they say 'Pre Alle,' I'm only focusing on the opponent," says Luca Szucs, the team's youngest member. "I'm trying to shut down everything. It's only me and the opponent, and I think that is the key because I can think after every touch."

An Olympic debutant, Szucs will display her lightning-fast saber skills alongside her three teammates, all seasoned Olympians. Liza Pusztai, a saber gold medalist at the Summer Youth Olympics and a two-time team World Championship winner, brings a fiery spirit and electrifying style – but even she feels the fizz of anticipation. 

"I'm a little bit nervous, but I'm looking forward to it because we've been working really hard for this moment, and maybe we can get a medal," she tells CGTN.

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‌Sugár Battai is a senior member of the team, with multiple European and World Championship titles. She also competed at Tokyo 2020 alongside team captain Anna Márton – but experience hasn't faded the excitement. 

"I wake up feeling great and excited about the competition. Instead of pressure, our World Championship wins motivate us," she insists. "As a young team, we're proving our potential, and I'm hopeful we'll stay focused and perform well at the Olympics."

‌The team members believe their secret weapon is the strength of their camaraderie. Having trained, fought and celebrated together since childhood, they share a deep understanding of each other's strengths and weaknesses. As Pusztai puts it, "I'm pretty sure we couldn't have won two World Championships titles if we weren't this close."

‌They've already been in action on the Paris piste, taking part in the individual saber. Szucs reached the quarter-finals, as did Márton – who had to edge out her team-mate Pusztai in the previous round. But when they assemble on Saturday for the team event, they will be united in their goal and determined to add another glorious chapter to Hungary's proud fencing legacy.

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