Following in the footsteps of Cheung Ka Long and Vivian Kong, he becomes the third Hong Kong fencer in history to reach the very top of the rankings. Back home for a short rest before preparing for November’s National Games, Ryan joined GQ Hong Kong for a shoot and a candid conversation about victories, setbacks, and what success truly means to him.
Please share a little about your recent situation.
Thank you for all the congratulations. After the competition, I’ve mainly been resting. I also spent a week in Taipei teaching kids fencing, and I met athletes from different places. It was rewarding to exchange ideas on techniques, mindset, and habits—I’m constantly learning something new.
What is your definition of success?
Success… for me right now, it isn’t just about a specific title, medal, or ranking. Of course, those are every athlete’s dream because they prove our hard work. But I also believe success is about helping others. Using my own achievements to create more opportunities for others—that gives me the greatest satisfaction. Put simply: if my success can lead to many more successes for others, that’s the most fulfilling feeling.
What has been the most moving moment in your fencing career?
It has to be the moment I won the gold medal at the World Championships.
How did you feel after that victory?
It was unbelievable, of course, but my emotions were calmer than expected. I was focused, not overly up or down—just a pure happiness, a joy that all the effort had finally paid off.
How has your mindset changed compared to when you first started fencing?
At first, fencing felt simple—like basketball or football, just another sport I enjoyed. But now, fencing has become inseparable from my life. It’s given me unforgettable experiences and shaped who I am. It’s part of me.
What was your most discouraging moment, and did you ever doubt your path?
The Tokyo Olympics, when I didn’t perform well, and failing to qualify for Paris—those were the toughest. I thought about giving up. I doubted myself, felt stuck in negativity. But then I reminded myself why I chose to go pro in the first place. I told myself I couldn’t let rankings or setbacks define me. If I love fencing, I have to keep pushing.
With your recent victories, you’ve become much better known. How do you feel about “fame”?
At first, fencing was just a hobby. Then it became my career, my life. Now, it feels bigger than just me. As my ranking rose, so did outside attention. Win or lose, there are always voices and opinions. Fame has also brought sponsorships and activities beyond sport. These can be distractions sometimes. I wouldn’t call it “fame,” but yes, I’ve had new experiences this year, which is interesting. Still, during training periods, I focus completely and don’t touch anything else.
Who are you outside of fencing? What do you enjoy in your downtime?
It might sound contradictory—I like being playful, but I’m also reserved. Sometimes I say funny, offbeat things, like on camera. Other times I just look tired, but I’m really just zoning out. That’s my contrast. For hobbies, I’m like anyone else—I enjoy singing, playing board games, things with strategy and fun.
Your guest commentary during the Paris Olympics made you popular. How did you feel about that work?
I found it really fun! I enjoyed sharing knowledge and analyzing matches on camera. I was surprised people liked my playful side. Watching the clips back feels strange, because off-camera I’m quieter. I do hope I can show more sides of myself in the future. But at the core, I’m still focused on fencing. I don’t chase fame or fortune. Staying true to why I love fencing—that’s what matters most.
What’s your next goal, and how are you preparing?
I’m still resting, but the National Games are coming up. At first, I set modest goals, like just reaching the top eight. But now I’ve reset my mindset—I want to win gold. Let’s see what happens.
Photographer: Issac Lam
Stylist: Cherry Mui
Makeup Artist: Wing Chan
Hair Stylist: Lupus Chui
Photo Assistant: Jason, Siu Chu
Fashion Assistants: Priscilla Ng, Audrey Kwan
Jewellery: FRED
Shoes: Christian Louboutin
Location courtesy of Kimpton
Interview and Text: Priscilla Ng
