Christiaan Bester, Rahul Van Manen and Harry Saner are poised to represent the pinnacle of South Africa’s university-level fencing at the 2025 FISU World University Games in Germany.
South Africa (04 July 2025) – The swords are sharp, and the energy is high as the national fencing team prepares to compete at the 2025 FISU World University Games in Rhine-Ruhr, Germany.
While South Africa has traditionally focused on athletics, swimming, and team sports at international university events, the country is now showcasing the rising talent in fencing, signalling a new era of sporting ambition.
Led by national champion Christiaan Bester, the fencing squad, which includes top student-athletes Rahul Van Manen and Olympic fencer Harry Saner, guided by coach Joseph Maluleke, represents the pinnacle of university-level fencing in the country, as confirmed by Sport South Africa.
The exciting opportunity follows the trio’s success at the semifinals of the 2025 South African National Championships, where Bester outcompeted Van Manen in a gripping final to claim the national title.
But now they stand united to showcase SA’s fencing excellence on the global stage.
Running from 16 to 27 July, the FISU World University Games will see around 8,500 student-athletes and officials from over 150 countries compete for medals in 18 sporting codes, making it one of the largest multi-sport events in the world.
With Bester’s sharp footwork and distance control, Van Manen’s aggressive style and tactical skill, as well as Saner being the first South African fencer to qualify for the Olympics in over a decade, our team is poised to present a strong challenge to our competitors.
During the national team announcement, University Sport South Africa President Jerry Laka affirmed that each fencer was a symbol of what is possible when talent meets opportunity, possessing the ability to redefine perceptions of fencing back home.
We’re excited to witness these athletes put their best foot forward and cross swords in what promises to be some epic international fencing tournament!
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Sources: Sport South Africa
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