Olga Kharlan

Olha Hennadiivna Kharlan, born on September 4, 1990, is a distinguished Ukrainian sabre fencer renowned for her exceptional achievements in the sport. As a four-time individual women's world sabre champion and a six-time Olympic medalist, she holds the title of the most decorated Ukrainian Olympian in history. Her remarkable career has seen her ranked #1 in the world in women's sabre for five seasons, including the years 2012 to 2013, 2013 to 2014, 2017 to 2018, 2019 to 2020, and 2020 to 2021.

Kharlan's accolades extend beyond individual competitions; she is also a two-time team world sabre champion and a six-time individual European champion. Her Olympic journey includes participation in five Games, where she achieved team Olympic gold in 2008 and 2024, a team silver medal in 2016, and three individual bronze medals. Her Olympic appearances span from the 2008 Beijing Olympics to the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics.

In 2016, Kharlan was honored with induction into the International Fencing Federation (FIE) Hall of Fame, recognizing her significant contributions to the sport. In addition to her athletic pursuits, she briefly ventured into politics during the early 2010s, showcasing her diverse interests and capabilities.

One of the most notable moments in her recent career occurred at the 2023 World Fencing Championships in Milan, where she faced Russian fencer Anna Smirnova. After a hard-fought victory, Kharlan extended her sabre in a gesture of respect, despite the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. This act led to a controversial disqualification, but the International Olympic Committee later intervened, granting her automatic qualification for the 2024 Summer Olympics and allowing her to compete in the team world championships.