Marissa Hafezan Claims Historic Karate Gold for Singapore

Marissa Hafezan has made history by winning Singapore’s first karate gold medal in 32 years at the Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games). The 19-year-old secured a remarkable victory on December 12, 2023, defeating Vietnam’s Nguyen Thi Dieu Ly 5-3 in the final of the women’s kumite under 55kg event held in Bangkok, Thailand. This achievement marks a significant milestone for Singapore, as the last karate gold medal was won by Neo Ah Suan in 1993.

Hafezan’s triumph also ends a 14-year medal drought for Singapore in karate at the SEA Games. Reflecting on her achievement, Hafezan expressed her gratitude and pride. “It was just overwhelmingly positive, and I’m just so honoured… that they recognise me as someone who did something very important,” she said during an interview with CNA’s Singapore Tonight program.

Overcoming Adversity

Leading up to the Games, Hafezan faced significant challenges, including injuries that could have derailed her ambitions. In April, she dislocated her shoulder but opted for physiotherapy instead of surgery. However, after re-injuring her shoulder at the Southeast Asia Karate Championship in June, she consulted a surgeon who recommended an operation due to a torn muscle and a slight fracture.

“I had SEA Games in mind. I wasn’t selected yet, but I had it in mind,” she explained. Following her surgery, she was cleared to compete, setting the stage for her historic performance.

A Journey Fueled by Passion

Born in Singapore, Hafezan moved to Paris at the age of three due to her father’s work. Despite her family’s base in France, they return to Singapore annually during summer breaks. In 2022, she set her sights on joining the national karate team. She reached out to the Karate-do Union of Singapore, training diligently whenever she visited Singapore.

“To qualify, I would send videos of my competitions from overseas, and they would take it from there,” Hafezan noted. Her dedication and discipline ultimately earned her a spot on the national team. She also trains with a karate club in Paris and has competed in events such as the French Cup, which she likened to the Singapore National Karate Championship.

Hafezan’s passion for karate is evident. “I’m a competitor at heart… it was like love at first sight,” she said, reflecting on her journey. Looking ahead, her aspirations remain high, with a goal of qualifying for the World Karate Championships, a dream she has nurtured since childhood.

Marissa Hafezan’s victory is not just a personal achievement but a moment of national pride for Singapore, highlighting the resilience and dedication that define her journey in karate.