Elena's initial interest in fencing was influenced by her family. "I had no other choice. My father was doing fencing, my grandfather, and, as it turned out, my great grandfather too! As any little girl, I wanted to be a model or actress but my father insisted, and then I got used to it," she shared.

Training and Clubs

Elena trains at the Odessa Regional School of Higher Sports Mastery Olympiets in Ukraine and Virtus Scherma Bologna in Italy. She is right-handed and has been coached by Andrea Terenzio (Virtus, national), Yevgeniy Statsenko (national), Oleksandr Vasyutin (personal), and Vitaly Vasyutin (personal).

Personal Life

Elena resides in Italy with her son Ivan. She speaks Russian and Ukrainian fluently. She holds a degree in Physical Education from the South Ukrainian National Pedagogical University in Odessa.

Achievements and Recognition

Elena's achievements are noteworthy. She received the Order of Princess Olga (third class) for her performance at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. Additionally, she holds the title of Honoured Master of Sport in Ukraine.

Influences and Idols

Her father and grandfather have been the most influential figures in her career. She looks up to Ukrainian fencer Olga Kharlan, Russian fencer Sophia Velikaia, and US boxer Muhammad Ali as her idols.

Hobbies and Rituals

Outside fencing, Elena enjoys going to the gym and reading. She has a unique ritual to calm herself before competitions: "Talking to myself helps to calm me down. I tell myself about the long journey I endured to get here, how I trained, and that I can do everything and will succeed in everything."

Future Ambitions

Looking ahead, Elena aims to win a gold medal at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. This goal reflects her dedication and commitment to excelling in her sport.

Elena Ivanova's journey in fencing is marked by dedication, family influence, and significant achievements. Her story continues to inspire many young athletes around the world.