Matteo Tagliariol defeated French Jerome Jeannet 15-9 to claim the gold medal in men's epee individual on Sunday, ending Italy's 48-year gold drought in this event, after Giuseppe Delfino won in front of a home crowd in Rome in 1960.

"It's incredible, but it happened, which is something can be planned. I fulfilled my dream today. It was my happiest day!" Matteo told reporters at the press conference.

"I did not fence well at the beginning of the final bout. After I changed my weapon, I became unstoppable," he said.

Starting his fencing career at six, he said it's amazing that his Olymic debut could bring him a gold medal.

Ranked third in the world, Matteo won two World Cups during the 2007-2008 season.

Asked about the feeling of defeating his "idol " Jerome Jeannet , Matteo said "I do not have any idols, and I do not believe gold medal favourite. Today I did my best to grab the wonderful chance. But I continue to admire Jerome and believe he is one of the strongest athlete. It's a better day for me," he said.

Italy has dominated the men's epee individual event for six Olympics until 1964. Since then, the crown has been taken over by France and Russia.

The day's victory helped revive the men's epee in Italy as Matteo put it: "Times is changing since more promising young people are involved in the game."

Matteo currently serves the air force of Italy. The 25-year-old said he was fond of listening to all types of music. But he would spend his gold medal bonus on a house and a computer.

(Xinhua News Agency August 11, 2008)