Gold medal-winning Hong Kong fencer Cheung Ka-long, who made history this week by becoming the first man in 68 years to defend his Olympic foil title, received a rousing reception from fans after returning home from Paris on Friday morning.
The 27-year-old, who secured Hong Kong’s only gold at the 2020 Tokyo Games, is the only local athlete to have more than one Olympic gold medal to their name. Since becoming the Asian champion at 18, left-hander Cheung has consistently raised the bar, redefining Hongkongers’ perceptions of local athletes’ capabilities on the global stage.
Hong Kong’s performance at the Paris Games has been equally momentous, with the city winning two golds and two bronzes so far. Fans and friends eagerly awaited Cheung’s arrival, just a day after fellow fencer Vivian Kong Man-wai returned home, having made history by becoming the first Hongkonger to win the women’s épée final.
A Hero’s Homecoming
Cheung Ka-long’s return was met with enthusiastic cheers and applause from fans who gathered early at the airport. His victory in Paris marked Hong Kong’s fourth Olympic gold medal, following windsurfer Lee Lai-shan’s triumph in Atlanta in 1996 and Cheung’s own gold in Tokyo.
16-year-old Darren Lo, a secondary school student and long-time fan of Cheung, was thrilled to encounter his hero while waiting to collect his luggage. “I cheered him on, wished him good luck, and told him that I’m proud of him for winning the gold medal at the last point [of the match],” Lo said, recalling his excitement.
Stella Siu, a 29-year-old teacher, and her mother rushed to the arrival hall to catch a glimpse of Cheung. “I respect him a lot. I have been watching his matches since the round of 32,” Siu shared, capturing a memorable photo of her mother near the gold medallist amidst the bustling crowd of security guards and reporters.
Embodying the Hong Kong Spirit
Cheung attributes his success to the relentless “Hong Kong spirit” of never giving up and giving everything. This mindset has been crucial throughout his Olympic preparation, driving him to push through challenges without making excuses. “I just keep going, keep fighting. This is how it is,” he said.
During his dramatic victory over his Italian opponent in the Olympic final, eagle-eyed fans noticed Cheung sporting luxury jewelry from Christian Dior and Van Cleef & Arpels. The jewelry, including rings, a bangle, and a four-leaf clover motif, sparked playful comments on social media, with one meme creator joking, “I had no idea Cheung Ka-long was a Kong girl nvm I love him more now.”
Reflecting on a Historic Win
Cheung’s win has not only added to his accolades but has also inspired countless Hongkongers. His achievement represents more than just a personal victory; it is a testament to the potential of local athletes on the world stage. Cheung, who won Hong Kong’s first gold in Tokyo and now a second in Paris, continues to pave the way for future generations of athletes.
Celebrating Excellence
As Hong Kong celebrates Cheung Ka-long’s exceptional achievements, the city remains hopeful for more sporting triumphs. His dedication, perseverance, and ability to overcome adversity serve as an inspiration to all, embodying the true essence of the Olympic spirit.
Cheung’s return was the final highlight in a series of exciting moments for Hong Kong at the Paris Games. The collective achievements of the athletes, including Vivian Kong’s historic gold in women’s épée, have filled the city with pride and optimism for the future.
The journey of Cheung Ka-long from an ambitious young fencer to a celebrated Olympic champion underscores the power of hard work and determination. As Hong Kong continues to revel in its Olympic successes, the legacy of Cheung Ka-long will undoubtedly inspire many more to dream big and strive for excellence on the global stage.