Star fencer Ryan Choi began the new calendar year on a high by winning the silver medal in the fencing World Cup in Paris.

The Hong Kong, China foil fencer lost the final bout 10-15 against American Alexander Massialas on Saturday.

Choi, who's the reigning world champion and won his first World Cup gold medal in Fukuoka, Japan last month, remains number one in the men's individual rankings.

His teammate, Edgar Cheung, bowed out in the round of 32 in France, losing by just one touch.

The pair are due to return to action on Sunday in the men's team event.