Ibtihaj Muhammad helps U.S. women’s sabre fencing team to bronze medal at Rio Olympics

MAPLEWOOD – Ibtihaj Muhammad made history when she became the first Muslim-American to wear a hijab – a traditional Muslim head scarf – while competing for the United States Olympic Team.

Five days later, the Columbia High School graduate again competed and helped the U.S. women’s fencing team to the bronze medal in the team sabre competition at the Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Saturday, August 13.

Muhammad, again wearing hijab, and her teammates routed Italy, 45-30, for third place.

In the semfinals, the United States fell behind Russia, 20-12. But Muhammad was able to help the U.S. cut the deficit with a win over second-ranked Yana Egorian.

U.S. teammate Mariel Zagunis picked up another victory before Muhammad scored a victory again to give the U.S. a 35-34 edge.

But Russia regained the momentum en route to defeating the U.S., 45-42. Russia then defeated the Ukraine, 45-30, for the gold.

Muhammad, wearing a hijab, competed in the women’s individual sabre competition Monday, Aug. 8. The 30-year-old Maplewoodian split two matches as she won in the round of 32 before being eliminated in the round of 16.

After a standout fencing career at CHS, Muhammad continued her career at Duke University where she became a three-time NCAA All-American.

Muhammad, also a former CHS girls’ fencing coach, won gold and bronze medals as a member of the United States Senior World Championships and Pan American teams.