Veteran Fencer Cheung Siu Lun Retires:
Monthly Allowance Was Too Low; Disparity Between Effort and Income
Calls for More Support in Sports Industry
As the Paris Olympics concludes, the topic of athletes’ salaries and welfare has once again become a hot topic in the city. In April this year, Cheung Siu Lun, affectionately known as the “Big Brother” of the Hong Kong fencing team, announced his retirement. Cheung revealed that 20 years ago, when he was a professional athlete, his monthly salary was just over HK$2,000, making it difficult to sustain a living. This disparity between effort and income led his parents to oppose his decision to pursue sports full-time.
Cheung had to prove his determination and capability through his performance. Over the years, he has represented Hong Kong in fencing, winning the gold medal at the 2018 Asian Fencing Championships and representing Hong Kong at the Tokyo Olympics in 2020, ultimately gaining his parents’ support.
Cheung noted that Hong Kong’s fencing scene has significantly improved over the past two decades. From having only two to three full-time fencers, the number has now increased to around twenty to thirty. With more people involved, competition has also intensified. Cheung believes that the new generation of Hong Kong fencers will continue to achieve better results. He emphasized the need for substantial investment of time and resources to ensure that the Hong Kong fencing team and other sports can perform well in international competitions. “Many sports can thrive with family support, along with backing from the government and adequate facilities in schools. This would provide athletes with job opportunities even after retirement. I believe Hong Kong has the potential to develop a vibrant sports industry,” he said.
