Poland's Kamila Sellier stretchered off after opponent's blade slices above her eye in Olympic 1500 - Associated Press News
AP News
February 20, 2026
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Poland's Kamila Sellier was stretchered off the field during an Olympic fencing match after her opponent's blade struck her above her eye, causing a severe injury. The incident occurred in the women's 1500-meter event at the Tokyo Olympics, where Sellier was competing against France's Sarah Steingruber. The blow to her left eye led to immediate medical attention, with Sellier being carried off on a stretcher and later taken to a hospital for further treatment.
The match was suspended following the incident, leaving Steingruber as the winner by default. Sellier had been in a strong position before the injury, having previously secured two gold medals in her career. Her sudden departure from the competition shocked both fans and officials, highlighting the dangerous nature of fencing and the potential risks associated with high-speed blade duels.
This incident has sparked concerns about safety protocols in fencing tournaments, particularly in high-stakes events like the Olympics. It also underscores the physical demands and risks faced by athletes in competitive sports. For readers interested in news, this story highlights the unpredictable nature of sports and the importance of prioritizing athlete safety while maintaining the integrity of competition.
The outcome of the match has left many questioning how such injuries can be prevented in the future. Fencing organizations may need to revisit their safety measures to ensure that similar incidents are avoided. For now, Kamila Sellier's injury serves as a stark reminder of the risks involved in Olympic-level competitions and the toll they can take on athletes' lives and careers.
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Originally published on AP News on 2/20/2026