Osanguk Advances to Semifinals... Clashes with World No.7 [Paris Olympics]

Oh Sang-wook, the ace of the men's sabre fencing team, advanced to the semifinals of the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Ranked 4th in the world, Oh Sang-wook defeated Pares Arpa, ranked 35th globally, 15-13 in the men's individual sabre quarterfinals held on the 27th (local time) at the Grand Palais in Paris, France.

Osanguk is roaring after defeating Pares Arpa (Canada) in the men's sabre individual quarterfinals at the 2024 Paris Olympics held at the Grand Palais in Paris, France, on the 27th (local time).
Photo by Yonhap News

Arpa was the protagonist behind several upsets in this tournament. In the round of 32, Arpa defeated Hungary's Aron Szilagyi, ranked 5th in the world, 15-8. Originally, Oh Sang-wook was expected to face Szilagyi in the quarterfinals. In the round of 16, Pares also caused an upset by defeating France's Bolade Apiti, ranked 12th.

Oh Sang-wook struggled but ultimately overcame the tournament's dark horse, Arpa. After taking an early lead of 4-1 and maintaining momentum to lead 12-9, it seemed he was on the verge of advancing to the semifinals. However, he then conceded three consecutive points, allowing Arpa to tie the score and putting Oh in a difficult position. Fortunately, Oh scored two consecutive points afterward to secure the victory.

Oh Sang-wook will face Luigi Samele of Italy, ranked 7th in the world, at 3:15 AM Korean time on the 28th.

If he defeats Samele, he will compete in the final against the winner between Giad Elsisi (Egypt, 1st) and Pares Ferjani (Tunisia, 14th). The final will begin at 4:05 AM Korean time on the 28th.