Filipino-Ivorian fencer Maxine Esteban battles through adversity at the Paris 2024 Olympics, sharing her setbacks and showdowns with MEGA Active
One thrust and parry can decide the outcome of a match, and Maxine Esteban’s path to the Paris 2024 Olympics has been a real duel with destiny. Balancing on the edge of her dreams, the fencer’s story exemplifies the undefeatable spirit of an athlete who refused to retreat, even when the odds were stacked against her.
RELATED: 5 Filipino Celebrities Who Are Into Sporty Activities
Maxine’s Choice
Representing Ivory Coast at the Paris 2024 Olympics is a bittersweet experience for Maxine. “I am very happy and grateful to Côte d’Ivoire for embracing me, giving me the honor of representing the country, and making this Olympic dream real for me,” she shares.
Yet, there is an undeniable pang of regret. “I have always dreamed of qualifying for the Olympics under the Philippine flag. But what can I do? I was removed from the national team roster and was refused immediate reinstatement. With just a month away from the start of the Olympic qualifications, I had to make a choice.”
This pivotal moment wasn’t without its share of highs and lows. Ranked #52 in the world before her ACL injury, she was at her peak. “Athletes don’t get younger. We only have this small window of opportunity. If not now, then when?” she reflects. Despite finishing 23rd after facing Pauline Ranvier, a silver medalist from the Tokyo Olympics, Maxine remains undeterred. “Although this wasn’t the result that I wanted, this experience has made me stronger and wiser.”
Climbing the Ranks
Maxine’s training regimen, now based in Germany under the guidance of her coach Andrea Magro, is rigorously incorporates technique, strength, and strategy. “I have daily lessons in the morning with my coach. Twice a week, I go for strength and conditioning at the gym after lunch, then at night, I have footwork or free fencing sessions,” she explains. The support from the Ivorian Fencing Federation (FIE) has been instrumental, allowing her to maintain her training standards and focus on her goals.
From being ranked #52 before her injury to currently holding the 27th spot globally, Maxine’s ascent in the FIE rankings conveys her perseverance. “Even when I was fencing for the Philippines, I actively participated in FIE-sanctioned competitions because performing well earns points for your world ranking,” she notes. Her strategy remains clear: “I will continue to compete in the FIE-sanctioned competitions and consistently aim to make it at least to the T64 in the World Cups and Grand Prix to boost my world ranking.”
En Garde: Dream Big and Stand Tall
For young aspiring fencers facing their own set of challenges, Maxine’s advice is sound and empowering. “Dream big and work hard to achieve your dream. Challenges and setbacks can be overcome, and nothing is impossible if you pour your heart into it,” she says.
She emphasizes the importance of self-respect and integrity, “Stand up and let your voices be heard. You alone can chart your own destiny, so never allow anyone to tell you otherwise. Fight for what is right and do everything with integrity.”
Legacy in Action
Maxine aims to wield her influence, championing empowerment and integrity in sports. “I want to leave a legacy of women empowerment in sports, not just in sportsmanship or excellence, but in the ability to speak up and fight for what is right,” she asserts. She dreams of inspiring change and encouraging lawmakers and sports leaders to instill values of equality, integrity, courage, and justice within the sports community.
The fencer is a believer in showing what can be achieved by conquering hardship, standing up for what you believe in, and inspiring others to follow in your footsteps. Maxine Esteban wants to encourage young athletes to focus on their goals, work passionately and persistently to attain them, and combat what they have fought so hard for. “The world can be harsh and tough, but we just have to be tougher! Be confident, believe in yourself, and there is nothing that you cannot achieve or conquer!”
Photographed by SHERWIN DE LEON
