Kharlan's career is marked by numerous achievements. She won gold in team sabre at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and became the first Ukrainian fencer to win multiple Olympic medals. Her bronze in individual sabre at the 2012 London Olympics and subsequent medals at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Games solidified her legacy.

Training and Coaching

Kharlan trains under coaches Andrea Terenzio and Yevgeniy Statsenko. Her regimen includes mental challenges like balancing stones to enhance decision-making skills during competitions. This unique approach helps her stay sharp even when fatigued.

Personal Life

Residing in Bologna, Italy, Kharlan is fluent in English, Russian, and Ukrainian. She holds a degree in Coaching from Admiral Makarov National University of Shipbuilding in Mykolayiv. Her partner, Luigi Samele, is also a distinguished fencer who has represented Italy.

Awards and Recognition

Kharlan has received numerous accolades, including being named Female Athlete of the Year at the Ukrainian Heroes of Sport Awards multiple times. She has also been honoured with various Orders of Princess Olga and Orders for Merit in Ukraine.

Influences and Inspirations

Her parents have been the most influential figures in her career. She idolises US fencer Mariel Zagunis and lives by the motto: "I always treat my rivals with respect. Before we go out onto the piste, we can be friends, talk, and on the strip we fight to the last, to show who is stronger."

Challenges and Recovery

Kharlan underwent shoulder surgery after the 2016 Rio Olympics but made a strong comeback. Her resilience is evident in her continued success on the international stage.

Future Ambitions

Looking ahead, Kharlan aims to win individual gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics. She acknowledges that it might be her last Olympics and wants to enjoy every moment of it.

Community Contributions

In 2022, Kharlan and Samele facilitated training for Ukrainian fencers at Virtus Scherma Bologna club in Italy. They also organised a fundraiser to support these athletes during challenging times.

Role Model and Media Presence

In 2020, Kharlan was chosen as an inspiration for a Barbie doll as part of the Barbie Role Models project. This initiative aimed to highlight successful women and encourage young girls to pursue their dreams.

Dancing Background

Kharlan's early dance lessons have contributed to her fencing skills. She believes that the rhythm of music is similar to the rhythm required in fencing. In 2021, she participated in Ukraine's 'Dancing with the Stars'.

Other Roles

Apart from her athletic career, Kharlan has served on the International Fencing Federation Athletes' Commission and the National Olympic Committee of Ukraine's Athletes' Commission.

Olga Kharlan's journey from Mykolayiv to becoming an Olympic champion is a testament to her dedication and skill. As she prepares for the 2024 Paris Olympics, her story continues to inspire many aspiring athletes worldwide.