The London 2012 epée team gold medallist is looking to follow in the footsteps of compatriot Jujie Luan, champion in the women’s foil at Los Angeles 1984, in what is expected to be a highly competitive event. 

Xu, a medallist at World Cup events three times years, is likely to face a strong challenge from closest rival Sarra Besbes of Tunisia.

The French-trained world number two finished eighth at London 2012 but could become the first African fencer to grab an Olympic gold medal. 

Russia’s Tatiana Logunova, 36, is competing in her fifth Games having won a gold medal in the team event at Sydney 2000 and another at Athens 2004.

At London 2012 she did not compete in the individual event and lost the bronze medal bout in the team competition.

Two-time world champion Rossella Fiamingo of Italy cannot be ruled out of contention having learned from her debut at London 2012.

She was the youngest fencer in the Italian fencing team four years ago and finished seventh in both individual and team events.

Now 25, Fiamingo can also become the first fencer from her country to win the woman's epée individual event.

Romania also look strong with 2016 European champion Simona Gherman an outside bet for success and the experienced Ana Maria Popescu, competing at her fourth Olympics, having the potential to improve on her silver medal at Beijing 2008.

As in London 2012, Courtney Hurley, who finished 22nd, and sister Kelley, who did not participate in the epée individual event, will represent the United States.

They were both part of the bronze medal-winning women's epée team at London 2012.

A total of 37 fencers from 19 countries will battle for the women’s epée individual gold medal in Rio. 

As no fencer has won more than one World Cup or Grand Prix event this year and none of the highest-ranked competitors has won gold at any Games in the individual event, the medal positions are wide open.