Oh Sang-uk wins Asian saber title after borrowing equipment amid protest

South Korean saber fencer Oh Sang-uk claimed the individual gold medal at the Asian Championships in New Delhi, overcoming significant logistical challenges. His triumph marks a return to the top of the Asian circuit after a two-year hiatus from the individual championship title.

The national team faced considerable disruption before the tournament due to a protest. Demonstrators, unhappy with a shortage of ballot papers, blockaded the Korean Fencing Association's office at the Olympic Park Handball Stadium. This action prevented athletes from accessing their equipment.

As a result, Oh Sang-uk and 13 other national team members were forced to compete using borrowed gear. They departed for the competition on the 16th, relying on loaned sabers and protective jackets. Despite these setbacks, Oh secured his victory by defeating Luo Xiaotong of China 15-8 in the final.

In the semifinals, Oh had previously defeated his compatriot Do Gyeong-dong, who went on to secure the bronze medal. The Korean Fencing Association provided the medals for the athletes.