Balzer trains at the National Institute of Sport, Expertise, and Performance (INSEP) in Paris. She is left-handed and coached by Matthieu Gourdain and Damien Touya. Her dedication to training is evident from her motto: "I'm a very hard worker, it's the only recipe I have found."

Her most memorable achievement came at the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo, where she won silver in the team sabre event. Despite being an alternate member of the team, she played a crucial role in the final match.

Injuries and Recovery

Balzer has faced several injuries throughout her career. In early 2024, a hip injury kept her out for over two months. She made her comeback at the World Cup event in Athens in March 2024. Previously, she suffered an ACL injury in her left knee during the 2017 World Championships in Leipzig. This injury sidelined her until May 2018.

Reflecting on her recovery, Balzer mentioned that the psychological impact was harder than the physical one. She incorporated new strengthening exercises into her routine, which helped her become a better athlete.

Awards and Honours

In recognition of her achievements, Balzer was named 2023 Female Fencer of the Year by the French Fencing Federation. In 2021, she was honoured as a Knight of the National Order of Merit by the French government.

Ambitions and Future Plans

Looking ahead, Balzer aims to win gold in both individual and team sabre events at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. She believes that her best season to date was in 2023, where she saw improvements both physically and mentally.

Personal Insights

Balzer has also pursued higher education in psychology at INSEP and studied digital communication. She speaks English, French, and Spanish fluently. Her commitment to continuous improvement is evident as she prepares for future competitions with a positive mindset.

Sara Balzer's journey is a testament to hard work and resilience. As she gears up for the 2024 Olympics, her focus remains on refining her skills and enjoying every moment on the piste.