Cambodian-Italian Fencer Olga Calissi Advances to Round of 1/32 and Secures 29th Place at the World Championships

Tbilisi, Georgia – 26 July 2025

Cambodia proudly marks a significant milestone in international fencing as Cambodian-Italian fencer Olga Calissi advanced to the Round of 1/32 and finished 29th overall among 143 female competitors in the Women’s Individual Sabre category at the 2025 World Fencing Championships held in Tbilisi, Georgia.

This achievement makes Calissi the first athlete to break new ground for Cambodia on the global fencing stage, showcasing not only her personal excellence but also the growing potential of Cambodian fencing at an international level.

Strong Pool Performance and Knockout Round Success

Competing in Pool 17, Olga Calissi impressed with 4 victories out of 6 matches, securing her place in the elimination rounds. She entered the Round of 128 where she faced a German opponent, claiming a decisive win with a score of 15–7.

In the Round of 64, Calissi continued her winning momentum by defeating a Spanish competitor in a nail-biting match, ending 15–14 in her favor. However, her run came to an end in the Round of 32, where she was narrowly defeated by a French fencer with a score of 11–15.

Despite the loss, Calissi's top-30 finish stands as a remarkable result—especially considering this was her first official international competition in over five years.

Return to the International Scene After Five-Year Hiatus

This year’s World Championship marks Olga Calissi’s first major return to international competition after a five-year absence due to the global suspension of events during the COVID-19 pandemic and a transitional period with her competitive licensing.

Her comeback highlights not only her resilience but also her dedication to representing Cambodia at the highest level, after having competed previously under the Italian flag.

A Landmark Moment in Cambodian Fencing History

Olga Calissi's participation was made possible through official recognition and approval from the International Fencing Federation (FIE), which authorized her nationality change from Italy to Cambodia. This transition followed all formal protocols, including the mandatory three-year waiting period, and was mutually agreed upon by the Cambodian Fencing Federation, Italian Fencing Federation, and the FIE.

This process has allowed Calissi to officially represent Cambodia—a decision that aligns with both sporting regulations and her personal aspirations.

Looking Ahead

Calissi’s performance not only signals her promising return but also acts as an inspiring precedent for future Cambodian athletes. Her top-30 finish places Cambodia on the global fencing map, proving that with the right support and talent, the nation can compete among the world’s best.

As Cambodia continues to invest in and nurture its athletic talent, the fencing community and national sports enthusiasts alike will be watching Olga Calissi’s journey with anticipation and pride.

By Chor Sereymorakot