Lee Kiefer Announces Retirement After the 2024 Paris Olympics
August 2024 — In an emotional announcement, American fencing legend Lee Kiefer has officially retired from the sport following her final appearance at the 2024 Paris Olympics. The 30-year-old foil fencer, who made history by winning the first-ever Olympic gold for the United States in women’s individual foil at the 2021 Tokyo Games, revealed her decision to step away from competition to focus on her medical career and family.
Kiefer, a four-time Olympian, reflected on her journey and the significance of representing her country on the world stage. “Fencing has been my passion for as long as I can remember, and it’s shaped me in so many ways. But after four Olympics and achieving my dream in Tokyo, I feel like this is the right moment to step back,” Kiefer said during her announcement.
While Kiefer did not capture a medal in Paris, her career remains one of the most decorated in U.S. fencing history. In addition to her Olympic gold, she secured multiple World Championship and Pan American titles throughout her career. Balancing her life as both a world-class athlete and a medical student, Kiefer has been a role model for athletes pursuing dual careers.
Her husband, Gerek Meinhardt, who is also an elite fencer and Olympian, was by her side during the announcement. The couple expressed their excitement about focusing on their medical careers and starting a family.
Kiefer’s retirement marks the end of an era for U.S. fencing, but her legacy is sure to inspire future generations. “I hope that young fencers out there see that it’s possible to chase your dreams and still pursue your education and other passions,” she said.
Though she will no longer compete, Kiefer hinted at remaining involved in the sport through coaching, mentoring, and possibly contributing to medical advancements for athletes.
