In a stunning upset at the final FIE Cadet World Cup event of the season, Sierra Leone’s rising star Rafael Rajic claimed bronze in men’s foil, marking his nation’s first-ever medal on the international fencing circuit.
The 16-year-old fencer battled through a grueling field of competitors to claim his glory.
Rafael advanced to the semifinals with decisive victories before falling to the eventual gold medalist and the number 2-ranked cadet fencer in the world.
“This is a dream come true for Sierra Leone fencing and a big step for our future,” said Rajic post-bout, his bronze gleaming under the arena lights.
His marks the end ofl ends decades of quiet persistence for Sierra Leone, which is reinvigorating the program amid limited resources.
The head of Sierra Leone fencing, Mohammed Serry, hailed it as “the spark that will light up African fencing.”
Rajic’s podium finish vaults him into FIE’s top 10 cadet rankings, boosting Sierra Leone’s visibility and credibility.
Sierra Leone’s fencing body now plans to build on this milestone and attract more sponsors to grow the successes and program further.