Notifications
Settings
Clear Notifications
Notifications
Use the toggle to switch on notifications
  • Block for 8 hours
  • Block for 12 hours
  • Block for 24 hours
  • Don't block

Fanni Illes Paralympics 2024

Hungarian athlete, known for her resilience and dedication, has been a prominent figure in the world of Para swimming. She began her swimming journey at age 12 in Heviz, Hungary, following a recommendation from her doctor for rehabilitation. Inspired by Hungarian Para swimmer Dora Pasztory, she quickly found her passion in the water.

Para Swimming
Hungary
Birth Date: May 1, 1992
Fanni Illes profile image
Birth Place: Keszthely
Social Media: Facebook Instagram
Paralympic Experience: 2020, 2016, 2012, 2008, 2024

Fanni Illes Paralympic Medals

Paralympic Medals

1
Gold
1
Silver
0
Bronze
2
Total

2024 Medals

0
Gold
1
Silver
0
Bronze
1
Total

Fanni Illes Paralympic Milestones

Season Event Rank
2020 100m Breaststroke - SB4 G Gold
2020 4x100m Freestyle Relay - 34 Points 5
2016 100m Breaststroke - SB5 5
2012 100m Breaststroke - SB5 8
2008 100m Breaststroke - SB5 8
2016 400m Freestyle - S6 9
2012 400m Freestyle - S6 9
2008 400m Freestyle - S6 9
2016 100m Backstroke - S6 10
2016 100m Freestyle - S6 10
2020 400m Freestyle - S6 11
2016 200m Individual Medley - SM6 11
2012 100m Backstroke - S6 11
2008 100m Backstroke - S6 11
2020 200m Individual Medley - SM6 12
2020 100m Backstroke - S6 13
2012 100m Freestyle - S6 13
2008 200m Individual Medley - SM6 13
2012 200m Individual Medley - SM6 14

Fanni Illes Biography

At just 16 years and 139 days old, she became the youngest athlete to represent Hungary at the 2008 Paralympic Games in Beijing. This milestone marked the beginning of a successful career. Her early achievements include being named Person of the Year, Female Athlete of the Year, and Student Athlete of the Year in Zala, Hungary, in 2008.

Challenges and Injuries

Her career has not been without challenges. She underwent multiple shoulder operations in 2020 and needed elbow surgery in 2017 after a fall. She also experienced elbow problems in 2016 and had shoulder surgery in September 2012. Despite these setbacks, she returned to training and continued to excel.

Inspirations and Philosophy

Her inspirations include New Zealand Para swimmer Sophie Pascoe and Egyptian footballer Mohamed Salah. She credits her parents and Hungarian swimmers Dora Pasztory and Katinka Hosszu as significant influences. Her philosophy is simple: "Hard work always pays off, and no matter how hard the situation, you can always come out of it a winner."

Awards and Recognition

Her dedication has earned her numerous accolades. In 2020, she was named Female Athlete of the Year by Glamour magazine. She was also recognised as the 2019 University Athlete of the Year by Eotvos Lorand University. Recently, she was honoured as the flag bearer for Hungary at the opening ceremony of the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris.

Maternity Break and Return

After giving birth to her son Mor in July 2022, she took a break from major international competitions until the 2024 European Championships in Madeira, Portugal. Balancing motherhood with training has been challenging, but she remains committed to performing well at the upcoming Paralympic Games.

Future Ambitions

Looking ahead, she aims to compete at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris. Her goal is to restore her form and swim well at this prestigious event. Her journey continues to inspire many young athletes.

The Golden Butterfly Foundation

In 2006, her parents established the Golden Butterfly Foundation to support her training and purchase swimming equipment. Since 2019, the foundation has also mentored other young Para swimmers. She takes pride in inspiring others and believes that making a positive impact on even one person's life is fulfilling.

Her story is a testament to perseverance and passion. As she prepares for future competitions, her legacy continues to grow, inspiring many within and beyond the sports community.

Fanni Illes FAQs on Paralympics

  • Is Fanni Illes qualified for the Paris 2024 Paralympics?
    Yes, Fanni Illes is competing in the Para Swimming event at the Paris 2024 Paralympics.
  • Who is Fanni Illes?

    Hungarian athlete, known for her resilience and dedication, has been a prominent figure in the world of Para swimming. She began her swimming journey at age 12 in Heviz, Hungary, following a recommendation from her doctor for rehabilitation. Inspired by Hungarian Para swimmer Dora Pasztory, she quickly found her passion in the water.

  • Which game does Fanni Illes play?
    Fanni Illes, a famous Para Swimming from Hungary, proudly competes for the country in international Para Swimming events.
  • In which city Fanni Illes was born?
    Fanni Illes was born on May 1, 1992 in Keszthely, Hungary.
  • How many Paralympic medals has Fanni Illes won in Para Swimming?
    Fanni Illes won the silver medal in the Para Swimming events.
News
Gender
Select your Gender
  • Male
  • Female
  • Others
Age
Select your Age Range
  • Under 18
  • 18 to 25
  • 26 to 35
  • 36 to 45
  • 45 to 55
  • 55+