The former world number one fell 15-13 to Japan’s Kazuki Iimura in a tense final at Aichi Sky Expo Hall.
With home support behind him, Iimura came out quick and aggressive, opening a four-point lead and stretching it to 10-5.
Choi refused to let the final slip away. He stayed composed, steadily cut into the deficit and dragged himself back to 12-12.
A remarkable comeback looked possible when he edged ahead at 13-12, but Iimura found the decisive touches down the stretch, denying Choi gold.
It was still a landmark result for the SAR, as Choi’s victory becomes the first fencing medal for the city at these Games.
Choi had earlier received a bye in the round of 32 before defeating opponents from Kazakhstan, Singapore and South Korea on his run to the final.
The fencer said in a TV interview that he was grateful to have his parents and supporters cheering for him in the final.
“This medal belongs to everyone, not just me. I am so happy I can share this honour with everyone,” he said.
“I hope to get the gold in the team event with my teammates to make up for today’s [result].”
He will return to the piste on Friday for the team event.
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Last updated: 2026-09-22 HKT 20:56
