Yulia Bakastova’s Stunning Victory Over Russian Major at the 2025 Fencing World Championship in Tbilisi
In an intensely competitive and exciting showdown at the 2025 Fencing World Championship held in Tbilisi, Ukrainian athlete Yulia Bakastova secured one of the most significant victories of her career by defeating a seasoned and decorated Russian fencer, Sofia Velyakaya, in the opening round. This triumph not only marked a personal milestone for Bakastova but also sent an important message amid the tense political climate between Ukraine and Russia. During the initial duel, Bakastova demonstrated exceptional skill and focus, narrowly defeating her opponent with a score of 15:14. Sofia Velyakaya, a renowned eight-time world champion and two-time Olympic gold medalist, also holds the rank of major in the Russian army. Her active political stance—serving as an envoy for Vladimir Putin during last year's elections—adds complexity to her sporting profile, illustrating the intertwining of sport and politics today. At just 29, Bakastova has already achieved international fame, winning gold in team foil at the Paris Olympics last year. However, her journey continues in Tbilisi, where she proves her resilience and prowess on the global stage. It is also noteworthy that this year's World Championship featured 40 athletes with Russian and Belarusian passports competing under a neutral status, a move that sparked extensive discussions and opposition from the international community. Many countries voiced concerns over the relaxed entry procedures for Russian and Belarusian athletes, emphasizing the potential risks to fair competition and transparency. Overall, Bakastova's victory exemplifies the strength and spirit of Ukrainian sportsmen, capable not only of defeating formidable opponents but also of defending national pride under challenging circumstances.