Egyptian Fencer Nada Hafez Competes In The Olympics While Seven Months Pregnant
Nada Hafez, the Egyptian fencer, displayed extraordinary determination by competing in the Paris 2024 Olympics while seven months pregnant. "What appears to you as two players on the podium, they were actually three!" she shared on Instagram. "It was me, my competitor, & my yet-to-come to our world, little baby!"

Hafez's path to Paris was paved with significant achievements and challenges. She made her Olympic debut at the 2016 Rio Games and competed again in Tokyo 2020. By the time she reached Paris, she had transformed from a nervous newcomer into a seasoned competitor, ready to tackle the world's best fencers. Her background as a former gymnast also contributed to her athletic discipline.
During the Paris 2024 Games, Hafez showcased her exceptional talent by defeating American world No. 10 Elizabeth Tartakovsky in the round of 32. Despite eventually losing to South Korea's Jeon Hayoung in the round of 16 in the women's sabre competition, Hafez's performance was celebrated as a remarkable feat.
Her journey is a testament to her sweet embrace of motherhood, remarkable athletic prowess, and fierce dedication to her sport.
"My baby & I had our fair share of challenges, be it both physical & emotional. The rollercoaster of pregnancy is tough on its own, but having to fight to keep the balance of life & sports was nothing short of strenuous, however worth it. I’m writing this post to say that pride fills my being for securing my place in the round of 16!"
"I’m lucky to have shared the trust of my husband @ibrahimihab11 and that of my family to be able to come this far," she added. "This specific Olympics was different; Three times *Olympian* but this time carrying a little Olympian one!"
Her participation in the Paris Olympics under such unique circumstances has inspired many. While women are increasingly fed the narrative that pregnancy marks the end of their dreams, in reality, women across the world are proving otherwise. As shown by Hafez, dreams and family go hand in hand.
Her ability to compete at such a high level while pregnant highlights the power of personal determination and support. Her performance should be remembered as a powerful example of the extraordinary capabilities of female athletes.
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