[1] The event was won by Jehan Buhan of France, the nation's first victory in the men's foil since 1928 and fifth overall (passing Italy for most all-time).

His countryman Christian d'Oriola took silver, while Lajos Maszlay earned Hungary's first medal in the men's individual foil with his bronze.

Joining him on the French team was 1947 épée world champion Jehan Buhan, who would have been favored in 1940 were it not for the war.

[2] Colombia, Ireland, Luxembourg, and Turkey each made their debut in the men's foil.

The United States made its ninth appearance, most of any nation, having missed only the inaugural 1896 competition.