Irina Bliznova

Irina Bliznova, born on October sixth, nineteen eighty-six, is a distinguished former Russian handball player who dedicated her entire career to Lada Togliatti. Her remarkable achievements include winning gold medals at the world championships in two thousand five and two thousand seven, as well as at the two thousand sixteen Rio Olympics. She also showcased her talent by securing second place in the two thousand eight Olympics and finishing eighth in the two thousand twelve games.

After announcing her retirement shortly after the two thousand sixteen Olympics, Bliznova made a surprising return to the sport for the two thousand nineteen to twenty season. However, she ultimately decided to retire for good following that season. Throughout her illustrious career, she claimed victory in the Russian championships in two thousand five, two thousand six, and two thousand eight, and reached the final of the two thousand seven EHF Champions League.

In April twenty twenty-one, Bliznova transitioned into a new role as the director of her former club, where she also contributes as a youth coach. This new chapter in her life allows her to share her extensive knowledge and experience with the next generation of handball players.

On a personal note, Irina is married to Alexander and is a proud mother to her daughter Arina, born in two thousand ten, and her son Arkhip, born in two thousand fourteen. Balancing her family life with her professional commitments, she continues to inspire both on and off the court.