In brief
Bulgarian fencer Ralitsa Gadzheva, 15, secured silver in the women’s cadet event at the Budapest World Cup 2026, defeating opponents from Hong Kong, Bulgaria, Hungary, Germany and China before falling to Germany’s Luisa Rezi. Gadzheva’s performance featured dominant victories on both the group and elimination stages, underscoring her rising profile in international fencing.
Roth Budapest, Hungary—Bulgarian fencer Ralitsa Gadzheva captured the silver medal in the women’s cadet event at the Budapest World Cup 2026 on November 7, 2026, according to the Bulgarian Fencing Federation.
The 15‑year‑old entered the competition with four victories and two defeats in the group stage, fighting for a berth among competitors from 22 countries—131 fencers in total.
In the elimination rounds, Gadzheva first swept Hong Kong’s Yuyan Uu Zou 15‑8, followed by a 15‑5 win over fellow Bulgarian Dora Hristova, and a 15‑9 victory against Hungary’s Boglarka Komjathy.
She then defeated Germany’s Amilia Mertens 15‑3 to secure a place on the podium before eliminating China’s Yingxiao Zhou 15‑11 in the semifinal.
In the final, Gadzheva faced Germany’s Luisa Rezi and lost 7‑15, leaving her with the silver medal on the podium.
Officials of the Bulgarian Fencing Federation praised her “exceptional composure and tactical skill” throughout the tournament, noting that her performance marks a significant milestone for the nation’s young athletes.
