Park Sang-young of South Korea and Ana Maria Popescu of Romania survived a marathon final day to win the men’s and women’s titles in the Qatar Fencing Grand Prix on Sunday.
Park defeated compatriot Jung Jin-sun in the final, while Popescu prevailed over Mara Navarria.
Both players played five rounds starting with the last-64 stage before qualifying for the finals on an action-packed final day.
Park, the reigning Olympic champion, had also won the title in Doha in 2014.
“The Olympic title at Rio de Janeiro was special but my win in Doha is also special,” park said.
The 22-year-old’s task was, however, not that easy as he had to battle past former world champion Paolo Pizzo of Italy in the semis.
“It was a long day and tiring day but I am happy that it ended with my win. I always like to come to Doha because it’s hospitality and the level of competition here,” he added.
Park’s victory was more or less expected but Popescu proved a surprise winner. She defeated two-time Qatar Grand Prix winner Navvaria after having beaten Hou Guangjuan in the semis.
The Qatar Grand Prix was held over three days in which about 350 fencers from 45 countries took part.