On Sunday, May 3, 2026, local time, at the Women's Foil World Cup held in Istanbul, Turkey, the Japan National Team won a bronze medal in the team event.

From left: Yuka Ueno, Sumire Tsuji, Yuzuha Takeyama, Sera Higashi

Facing the competition as the world's 4th-ranked team, Japan defeated Poland 45-29 in the quarter-finals. Although they narrowly lost to Italy 39-45 in the semi-finals, they went on to win the 3rd place match against South Korea 39-24, securing the bronze medal.

Sera Higashi (right) attacking her opponent

Cheers from the bench

From left: Sera Higashi, Yuka Ueno, Sumire Tsuji, Yuzuha Takeyama

Group photo of the entire Japan team

Athlete Comments

・Sera Higashi (Kyodo Kaihatsu Co., Ltd.)

“I am delighted to have won a team bronze medal. This season, it has been difficult to secure medals, so I believe this medal has boosted the confidence of our entire team. Personally, I will strive to improve my technical skills further to contribute more to the team! Thank you for your support.”

・Yuka Ueno (Air Water Inc.)

“I am very happy to have won a medal in the final World Cup team event of this season. Next, I will aim for victory and continue to improve my level. Thank you very much to everyone who supported us.”

・Sumire Tsuji (The Ogaki Kyoritsu Bank, Ltd.)

“This season, we struggled to win 3rd place matches and hadn't secured a medal, so I’m relieved to finally get one. The score difference with Italy has also narrowed, so I will do my best to reach the finals next time. Thank you for your support!”

・Yuzuha Takeyama (Air Water Inc.)

“Thank you for your support! Following the previous tournament, it’s frustrating that we lost just before the finals, but it was great to win a medal with the team. This time I participated as a reserve, but I will continue to work hard to expand what I can do and become a player who can be a positive asset to the team in any situation.”

Tournament Results

https://www.fencingtimelive.com/tableaus/scores/7D69909BB57443EAA5E533C33EBE44DD/01B3849F219249798AD987DCF0924F5B

Images

Please download and utilize them. When using, please credit “© Japan Fencing Federation”.

Contact for this matter

Japan Fencing Federation

Public Relations: Maezawa

E-mail: shuzai@fencing-jpn.jp

FACT BOX

  • Source: PR TIMES
  • Category: Event