After just six months of training, Branza became the national champion in her age group. This early success set the stage for a distinguished career. Known for her left-handed technique, she has been a formidable opponent on the fencing piste.

Achievements and Honours

Branza's career is decorated with numerous awards and honours. In 2017, she and her teammates from the national epee team received the Performance and Team Spirit Award from News.ro. In 2016, she was awarded the Sports Merit Order Class I by the Romanian government and was named an Honorary Citizen of Bucharest.

In 2015, CSA Steaua Bucuresti named her Athlete of the Year. These accolades highlight her contributions to Romanian sports and her exceptional skills in fencing.

Challenges and Injuries

Despite her successes, Branza faced several challenges. She underwent surgery on her right knee in May 2020 due to issues that affected her during the 2019/20 season. Additionally, she had a problem with her left hand following the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing.

Personal Life

Branza resides in Bucharest with her husband Pavel Popescu, who has played water polo for CSA Steaua Bucuresti. She is multilingual, speaking English, Romanian, and Spanish. Her hobbies include walking her dog, video blogging, collecting mementos from places she visits while competing, roller skating, spin classes, and growing herbs for cooking.

Retirement

In late 2021, Branza announced her retirement from competitive fencing. She stated that she no longer felt motivated to continue. "I thought I was ready for this moment because I don't feel like going any further," she said.

Author

In addition to her sporting achievements, Branza has also made contributions as an author. In 2018, she wrote a children's book titled 'En Garde. The Little Girl with the Tricolour Mask,' which traces her career from childhood.

Educational Background

Branza holds a degree in Physical Education from the University of Craiova in Romania. This educational background has undoubtedly contributed to her understanding of sports and physical fitness.

Sporting Philosophy

Branza's approach to fencing is encapsulated in her motto: "Fencing is my passion, not a job." This philosophy has driven her to excel and achieve great heights in her sport.

Ana Maria Branza's journey from a young tennis player to a celebrated fencer is inspiring. Her dedication to fencing and her numerous accolades reflect a career marked by hard work and passion.