Szilágyi's most memorable achievement is winning gold in individual sabre at the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo. This victory made him the first fencer to win three individual sabre gold medals at the Olympics. He also became the first male fencer to achieve this feat in the same discipline.

His first coach, György Gerevich, has been the most influential person in his career. Szilágyi idolises Hungarian fencers Aladár Gerevich and György Gerevich. Despite injuries, including a thigh injury at the 2024 World Cup and an ankle injury at the 2015 European Championships, he has continued to excel.

Awards and Honours

Szilágyi and his national sabre teammates were named Team of the Year for 2023 in Hungary. He received the International Fair Play Award for 2023 and was inducted into the International Fencing Federation Hall of Fame. In 2023, he was awarded the Hungarian Order of Saint Stephen.

In 2022, Szilágyi received the Grand Cross of the Hungarian Order of Merit. He was named Male Athlete of the Year in Hungary in 2016 and was Hungary's flag bearer at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. In 2012, he was named an honorary citizen of Budapest and Hevizgyork.

Sporting Philosophy

Szilágyi believes that fencing needs to become more marketable and accessible to grow. He fences because he loves it and enjoys what he does. His fencing style has adapted to international trends, focusing on quick reactions due to opponents' fast movements.

Personal Life

Szilágyi is married to Beata and has one son. He speaks English, French, and Hungarian. He holds a degree in International Relations from Eötvös Loránd University in Budapest.

Future Plans

Szilágyi aims to compete at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. He continues to evolve his fencing style and remains dedicated to improving his skills.

Other Activities

In January 2017, Szilágyi was elected president of the International Fencing Federation Athletes' Commission. He also serves as a member of the Hungarian Olympic Committee Athletes' Commission. In 2020, he became president of the fencing department at Vasas SC in Budapest.

Szilágyi's dedication to fencing extends beyond competing. He aims to help develop the sport and support future athletes through his roles in various organisations.

Despite superstitions about being a flag bearer, Szilágyi embraced the role at the 2016 Olympics. This decision boosted his confidence and energy, contributing to his gold medal win in Rio.

Áron Szilágyi's journey in fencing is marked by dedication, adaptability, and numerous accolades. As he prepares for future competitions, his contributions to the sport continue to inspire many.