Paris, July 29: Egyptian fencer Nada Hafez had double cause for celebration at the Olympics after achieving her first victory in the women's sabre event while seven months pregnant. The 26-year-old athlete, competing in her third Olympics, secured a memorable win against American world number 10 Elizabeth Tartakovsky, defeating her 15-13. Hafez was later eliminated in the round of 16 after a 15-7 loss to South Korea's Jeon Hayoung at the Grand Palais.
Hafez took to Instagram to express her pride, not only in her athletic performance but also in competing while expecting her baby. "What appears to you as two players on the podium, they were actually three! It was me, my competitor, & my yet-to-come to our world, little baby!" she wrote.
She continued, "I'm writing this post to say that pride fills my being for securing my place in the round of 16 ... this specific Olympics was different. Three times Olympian but this time carrying a little Olympian one!"
Hafez, who previously represented Egypt at the 2016 and 2021 Olympics, shared her experience to highlight the strength and perseverance of Egyptian women. "The rollercoaster of pregnancy is tough on its own, but having to fight to keep the balance of life and sports was nothing short of strenuous, however worth it," she added.
Hafez's remarkable achievement and inspiring story have resonated widely, showcasing her resilience and determination as both an athlete and an expectant mother.
