Egyptian fencer Nada Hafez and Azerbaijani archer Yaylagul Ramazanova defied expectations and showcased their incredible talent and determination at the Paris Olympics this year, competing while pregnant.
Their performances garnered international media attention and admiration, inspiring athletes and mothers worldwide. Hafez, 26, a three-time Olympian, first competed in Rio 2016 and then in Tokyo 2020, finishing 36th and 29th, respectively.
In Paris, Hafez faced American Elizabeth Tartakovsky, ranked 10th in the world, and secured a remarkable 15-13 victory before being defeated 15-7 by Jeon Hayoung of South Korea in the round of 16, as reported by Reuters.
The fencer, who was seven months pregnant during the competition, later expressed her pride in her performance and her unique journey as an expectant mother and athlete.
“It was me, my competitor, & my yet-to-come to our world, little baby!” Hafez proudly declared on Instagram, reflecting on her experience.
The following day, Ramazanova also shared her story on social media, revealing that she competed while six and a half months pregnant. She participated in the women’s single competition, narrowly defeating Chinese archer An Qixuan 6-5 in the first round.
Ramazanova shared a special moment with Xinhua News, recalling how she felt her baby kick just before shooting a perfect 10, the maximum score. “I felt that I was not fighting alone, but fighting together with my baby,” she said.
Despite their inspiring performances, Hafez faced some criticism online from those concerned about the potential risks to her pregnancy. However, the National Health Service of the United Kingdom refutes these claims, emphasizing the benefits of physical exercise during pregnancy for both mother and child.
According to the NHS, “Exercise is not dangerous for your baby. Active women are less likely to experience problems in later pregnancy and labor.” They encourage pregnant women to continue their normal physical activities as long as they feel comfortable.
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Paris 2024 Olympics – Fencing – Women’s Sabre Individual Table of 32 – Grand Palais, Paris, France – July 29, 2024. Elizabeth Tartakovsky of the United States competes against Nada Hafez of Egypt. Photo: Reuters |
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