| Alexander Tofalides | |
| Fullname: | Alexander Andreas Tofalides |
| Nickname: | Alex |
| Birth Date: | 13 March 1993 |
| Birth Place: | London, England |
| Nationality: | , |
| Weapon: | Foil |
| Hand: | Left-handed |
| Height: | 175 cm[1] |
| Weight: | 70 kg |
| Club: | Inspion Sports |
| Headcoach: | Benjamin Peggs[2] |
| Show-Medals: | yes |
Alexander Andreas Tofalides (born March 13, 1993) is a Cypriot fencer specializing in the foil. He qualified for the 2024 Summer Olympics, becoming the first fencer to represent Cyprus at the Olympic Games.[3]
Tofalides was born in London, England. He began fencing at the age of seven.[4] He balanced his fencing career with his academic pursuits at University College London (BA 2015)[3] and the London School of Economics and Political Science (MSc 2017).[4]
Tofalides represented Great Britain at the 2010 Summer Youth Olympics, finishing in seventh place in the individual boys' foil event.[3] Representing Great Britain until 2016, he was Individual Senior British Champion in 2013,[3] World Cup Bronze Medalist with Great Britain in Bonn 2014,[3] and Gold Medalist at the 2015 European Games in Baku with Team GB.[5]
Switching to represent Cyprus, Tofalides won his first gold medal at the FIE Men’s Foil Competition Satellite in Antalya, Turkey, in 2016.[4] His performances have significantly raised the profile of fencing in Cyprus.[4]
At the Tokyo 2020 European Olympic Qualifying event, Tofalides lost in the final to qualify for the Olympics.[6] Three years later, Tofalides secured his place at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris by winning the Europe Zonal Qualifying Tournament held in Differdange, Luxembourg.[7] [2] This achievement marked a historic moment as he became the first Cypriot fencer to qualify for the Olympic Games.[7]
Tofalides is known for his determination and famously beat Marcus Mepstead 4-1 in the British Championships, demonstrating his strategic and tactical versatility. His ability to read opponents and adapt his tactics mid-bout has been key to his success. He continues to refine his skills under the guidance of top coaches.[2]
Beyond fencing, Tofalides is committed to promoting sports among the youth in Cyprus.[8] He is also an advocate for mental health awareness, emphasizing the importance of psychological well-being for athletes.[8]
2010 Summer Youth Olympics: 7th place (individual boys' foil)[3]
2016 FIE Men’s Foil Competition Satellite Antalya, Turkey: Gold Medal[9]