As far as Hyundai Archery World Cup debuts go, Savannah O’Donohue’s could hardly have gone much better.
At just 17 years old, the reigning World Archery Youth Champion reached the compound women’s final four at Antalya 2026, stage three of the Hyundai Archery World Cup, at the first attempt.
A score of 690 in qualification on Tuesday provided a strong start to her week on archery’s premier international circuit, but shooting as the 23rd seed guaranteed difficult matches against far more experienced opponents.
O’Donohue responded impressively.
The American defeated 2023 Hyundai Archery World Cup Final silver medallist Tanja Gellenthien 146-145 before eliminating second seed Katharina Raab of Germany 146-144 in difficult windy and humid conditions at the Gloria Sports Arena.
“It’s a dream come true, honestly,” said O’Donohue, who immediately turned to ask her coach about the next match despite having just secured her place in Saturday’s finals.
“I knew I really wanted to make it this far; however, to actually make it is incredible. Everyone who shot was amazing.”
“I’m just so happy that I can be here and represent team USA. I’ve trained a lot for it. I knew my parents were going to sacrifice a lot for me, so I really wanted them to be proud.”
Not all of USA’s compound squad travelled to Antalya, as this stage was designated a self-funded event for American athletes, opening opportunities for younger archers such as O’Donohue.
