Silver went to Ernő Kolczonay of Hungary, extending the nation's podium streak to four Games despite the retirement of three-time medalist Győző Kulcsár.

Sweden's Rolf Edling, a two-time World Champion, made his third final in the event, but once again missed the podium.

[2] With West Germany boycotting the Games and Győző Kulcsár retiring, none of the 1976 medalists returned.

Belgium, France, Great Britain, and Sweden each appeared for the 16th time, tying the absent United States for most among nations.

The 1980 tournament continued to use the mix of pool and knockout rounds used in 1968 and 1976.