On Monday, Ukraine won its first OS medal.
Fencer Olga Kharlan defeated South Korean Choi Sibin in the bronze match, and afterwards she couldn't hold back tears. The Ukrainian collapsed from happiness, and when she later stood up, she pointed to her helmet, which was adorned with the colors of the Ukrainian flag.
Kharlan then dedicated the medal to her people.
This means so much. I want to dedicate this medal to my country and my people. To all those who are fighting and suffering from the war. Thank you for your support, my country is the best, says Kharlan after the victory.
The victory was a long time coming. Well into the match, Kharlan was trailing 4–11, but after a strong comeback, she was finally able to win the bronze match 15–13.
I don't quite understand what just happened. I was so far behind and had almost given up, continues Kharlan.
