CUADRADO WINS THE PORTHOS TOURNAMENT

For the second time since its creation, the Porthos Tournament final featured a girl and a boy competing against each other. After two double touches, it was ultimately Xavier Cuadrado who triumphed over Grace Donzalla, a 14-year-old Swiss fencer from Sion, who is certainly one to watch in the coming years.

He achieved a double victory by leading his team to a hard-fought win against a strong Grand-Est team (36-34). Xavier demonstrated that he is ready and will be a key player in decisive moments—an important signal ahead of the Fête des Jeunes final, which will take place next month in Albi.

Feedback from the winner of the 2023 Porthos Tournament.

Interview on May 14, 2023.

What is your training club, and where do you practice today?

I started fencing at the age of 5. Between the Bourg Saint-Andéol club, where I was trained, and the Federal Training Center in Lyon, I train 2 to 3 times a week with coaches Adrien Semaille and Yoran Vasseur.

How do you balance fencing and school?

It’s challenging because I’m in a strict boarding school that only allows me one training session during the school week. Additionally, I have little time to train due to the high demands of my high school.

What made you start fencing?

It was the chance to imitate Captain Harlock, the Three Musketeers, or Zorro. The competition, the club atmosphere, my fencing friends, and the thirst for victory all motivated me to keep going.

What do you think of the one-touch Porthos Tournament in hindsight?

Mentally challenging, and luck is a significant factor for success.

It takes six matches to win. Did you quickly get into the game?

From the very first match.

Do you think luck plays a significant role in winning the tournament?

Yes. As I mentioned earlier, luck is really important, but you also need to be able to make bold decisions, even without fully knowing your opponent.

What do you feel when landing that final touch in the tournament final?

Personally, I felt a wave of joy, but I was strangely lost since I had just won a competition by landing only six touches.

Would you be willing to defend your title?

Without hesitation!

What is the main goal of your season?

To win the French Championships

And your longer-term ambitions?

Fencing, and particularly épée, is a sport where strong athletes change quickly, and everyone has a chance. I don’t really have a specific goal, except to try and one day have the opportunity to compete in the World Championships.