Bhavani Devi scripts history, becomes first Indian fencer to win medal in Asian Championships

India's top fencer Bhavani Devi won a bronze medal in the women's sabre event at the Asian Fencing Championships 2023 and became the first Indian to win a medal in the women's sabre event at the Asian Fencing Championships 2023 on Monday.

 

Bhavani lost to Uzbekistan’s Zaynab Dayibekova in a hard-fought semifinal 14-15 but ensured India its maiden medal in the prestigious event.

 

Bhavani had earlier stunned reigning world champion Misaki Emura of Japan 15-10 in the quarterfinals to script history. Misaki had won the women’s sabre gold medal at the 2022 World Fencing Championships held in Cairo. It was Bhavani’s first win over Misaki as she had lost all her matches against the Japanese in the past.

The 29-year-old Bhavani had received a bye in the round of 64 before beating Dospay Karina of Kazakhstan in the next round. Bhavani then upset third seed Ozaki Seri 15-11 in the pre-quarterfinals.

After her victory, she shared a special message on Twitter expressing what the victory meant for her.

"Immense gratitude & pride for winning India's 1st-ever medal at Senior Asian Fencing Championship 2023! Standing on the podium was emotional. Despite a bronze in the semifinals, this fuels my confidence to work harder and make our nation proud. Grateful for all support & wishes," Bhavani wrote in her tweet.