Miles Chamley-Watson

Miles Chamley-Watson is a British-American foil fencer known for his achievements in international fencing. He is a 13-time team Pan American champion, team world champion, individual world champion, three-time Olympian, and team Olympic bronze medalist. At the World Championships, Chamley-Watson became the first male U.S. fencer to win an individual gold medal at the event. He also contributed to the first U.S. Men's Foil Team to medal at the Senior World Championships, earning silver in the team event. Chamley-Watson was part of the U.S. team that secured gold in team foil at the World Championships in Budapest, marking the United States' first world championship gold medal in the men's team foil event.

Chamley-Watson's early life included challenges related to ADHD, which led to his enrollment in the Quest program at the Dwight School in Manhattan. There, he began fencing, a sport recommended by his teachers as a constructive outlet. He has spoken about how fencing helped him manage his ADHD without medication. After high school, Chamley-Watson attended Penn State on a fencing scholarship, graduating with a degree in sports management. During his collegiate career, he was a four-time All-American and two-time NCAA fencing champion.

On the international stage, Chamley-Watson is recognized for introducing a new move to the sport. During his World Championships debut, he executed a behind-the-back flick, later named the Chamley-Watson, which was confirmed as a legal move after video review. He has competed as a member of the American team in the team event at the Olympics, maintaining his status as a three-time Olympian and a prominent figure in fencing.

Chamley-Watson has expanded the profile of fencing beyond its traditional audience, challenging assumptions about sponsorships and income within the sport. His distinctive appearance and presence have attracted attention from the fashion industry, leading to modeling opportunities and appearances at New York Fashion Week. Chamley-Watson is also active on social media, where he promotes sponsorships and partnerships, and is the founder of the World Fencing League.

He has expressed a commitment to making fencing more accessible and inspiring children from diverse backgrounds to participate in the sport. Chamley-Watson's personal journey, including overcoming ADHD and entering fencing as an outsider, provides a platform that resonates beyond the athletic community. He has cited advice from mentor Michael Strahan as influential in maintaining his priorities, reflecting his connections within the broader world of sports and media. Chamley-Watson continues to compete internationally and advocate for the growth of fencing, demonstrating the intersection of athletic achievement and cultural influence.