Sam Catantan re-tears ACL at Paris Olympics

Italy’s Arianna Errigo, left, and the Philippines’ Samantha Kyle Catantan compete in the women’s individual Foil round of 32 competition during the Paris Olympics 2024 at the Grand Palais, Sunday, July 28, 2024, in Paris, France. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini)

MANILA, Philippines—Team Philippines fencer Sam Catantan won’t be back in action anytime soon after tearing her ACL again in the Paris Olympics 2024.

Catantan bowed out in the women’s individual foil Round of 32 last week after losing to World No. 2 and tournament top seed Arianna Erigo of Italy.

“This sport has given me the best the world could offer, bringing me a unique joy whenever I am on the strip fencing for the Philippines. However, sometimes things may not go as planned,” wrote the 22-year-old fencer.

READ: Paris Olympics: Sam Catantan bows out after strong start in debut

“Unfortunately, I re-tore my ACL and need to take some time off the strip again. Despite this, I feel beyond blessed and grateful for all His grace.”

Catantan had a strong start in her Olympic debut after outdueling Mariana Pistoia of Brazil in the Round of 64.

The 22-year-old Catantan tore her ACL during the women’s foil semifinals at last year’s Southeast Asian Games, where she still managed to come away with the silver medal despite the injury.

READ: Paris Olympics: Tough road ahead for PH bet Samantha Catantan

Despite another setback, Catantan remained grateful for the opportunity to represent the country on the Olympic stage.

“I still can’t believe how this became possible at such an unexpected time. This is an experience I will never forget for the rest of my life. None of this would have been possible without the help and support of so many amazing people in my life.”

“Forever proud Pinay, forever an Olympian. This journey is far from over, but we’ve come a long way. Patuloy na lalaban para sa pangarap!”