Known as the “Queen of Sword,” Vivian Kong made history as Hong Kong’s first female Olympic champion since 1996.
Her victory at the Paris 2024 Olympics, where she secured the nation’s third-ever Olympic gold, stands as a testament to her unwavering determination and resilience. Despite two torn ACLs, Kong achieved the world’s number one ranking in women’s épée, a feat she first accomplished in 2019 and reclaimed in 2023.
A Champion’s Mindset
Vivian Kong adopts a vegan diet and turns to Buddhist meditation and sutra calligraphy to cultivate mental clarity and inner peace. Her embrace of impermanence, a core Buddhist principle, has helped her weather the highs and lows of competition.
Kong’s never-say-die attitude exemplifies the “Hong Kong spirit” she passionately upholds. This mindset has not only driven her to the pinnacle of her sport but also inspired a generation of athletes back home during what is widely regarded as a golden era for Hong Kong fencing.
Beyond the Piste
Vivian Kong has spearheaded initiatives to support single-parent families and children with special needs, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her long-term goal is to work with the United Nations on humanitarian efforts, using her platform to amplify causes close to her heart.
Kong’s announcement in August 2024 of her decision to take a break from professional fencing reflects her desire to explore her identity beyond the sport. “Stepping away from fencing allows me to find out who I am beyond being an athlete and to create a bigger impact for the community,” she shared.
Through every accolade, Kong remains grounded in her mission: to inspire others. “I hope kids and everyone watching can see how much passion and dedication we put into something we love. Even if we don’t win, it’s okay – as long as we give it our all,” she says.
A Legacy of Inspiration
Vivian Kong has redefined what it means to be a champion. From her historic World Cup victories to her Olympic triumphs, she inspire audiences with her stories of perseverance, adaptability, and purpose.
An accomplished scholar, she earned her undergraduate degree in international relations from Stanford University and holds a master’s degree in law from the Renmin University of China. Adding to her academic laurels, Kong joined the juris doctor program at the Chinese University of Hong Kong in 2021.