Itkin's journey in fencing started early. "My father is a fencing coach and he introduced the sport to me when I was about seven. I love this sport more than anything," he said. His life revolves around fencing, and he finds immense joy in outplaying his opponents and scoring.

Training and Coaching

Itkin trains at the Los Angeles International Fencing Center under the guidance of his father Misha, Igor Zapozdaev, and Greg Massialas for national competitions. He is right-handed and has been dedicated to improving his skills since childhood.

Educational Background

Itkin pursued higher education in Business and Political Science at the University of Notre Dame in the United States. During his time there, he was named the 2018 Atlantic Coast Conference Men's Foil Fencer of the Year.

Injuries and Challenges

In 2023, Itkin faced a significant challenge when he injured his hamstring muscle during a World Cup event. Despite this setback, he continued to train and compete at high levels.

Family Influence

Itkin's family has a rich history in sports. His mother Tatyana and grandmother were national-level gymnasts in Ukraine. His sister Julia competed in rhythmic gymnastics at a national level in the United States. This strong athletic background has been a source of inspiration for him.

Ambitions

Looking ahead, Itkin aims to win gold at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris and compete at the 2028 Games in Los Angeles. These goals reflect his dedication and commitment to excelling in fencing.

Promoting Fencing

Itkin has been actively promoting fencing among children in the United States through clinics. He believes that making fencing more accessible to all communities is crucial for its growth. "We need the young generation to put our sport on the map," he said.

Dual Citizenship

Itkin is eligible to compete for Ukraine through his parents but chose to represent the US. "I enjoyed competing for the US and always had the dream of being on the US national team," he stated.

Hobbies and Interests

Apart from fencing, Itkin enjoys athletics, economics, and politics. His idols include Italian fencer Andrea Baldini and US basketball player LeBron James.

Nick Itkin's journey in fencing is marked by dedication, family support, and a passion for promoting the sport to future generations. His achievements and ambitions continue to inspire many young athletes worldwide.