Born to a Sicilian father and a Russian mother, Palazzo's family has a strong sporting background. Her younger brother Misha also represents Italy in Para swimming and competed at the 2020 Paralympic Games in Tokyo. Their mother, Nadia Valkova, was an international water polo player.

Education and Career

Palazzo attended the Marco Polo Technical Institute in Verona. She later earned a master's degree in training theory and methodology from eCampus University in Italy. She is currently a police athlete and trains with the Verona Swimming Team and GS Fiamme Azzurre.

Achievements and Awards

Palazzo's list of accolades is impressive. In 2023, she received the Italian National Olympic Committee Sports Merit Award. She was named Paralympic Athlete of the Year at the 2022 Gazzetta Sport Awards. In 2021, she and her brother were granted honorary citizenship of Corleone for their achievements at the Tokyo Paralympics.

In 2020, Palazzo received the Gold Medal for Athletic Valor from the Italian Paralympic Committee. She was also named Emerging Athlete of the Year by the Sports Veterans Veronesi Group in Verona in 2014.

Personal Influences and Philosophy

Palazzo cites her family as her primary influence. Her heroes include US swimmer Michael Phelps and Italian swimmer Federica Pellegrini. Her personal philosophy is simple yet powerful: "Go ahead, you can do it."

Future Ambitions

Looking ahead, Palazzo aims to compete at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris. With her dedication and track record, she is well on her way to achieving this goal.

Language Skills and Hobbies

Palazzo is multilingual, speaking English, German, Italian, and Russian. In her free time, she enjoys listening to music and reading.

Coaching and Training

Marcello Rigamonti coaches Palazzo both at Verona and on the national level. Under his guidance, she continues to hone her skills and prepare for future competitions.

Xenia Palazzo's journey from physiotherapy to competitive swimming is a testament to her determination and passion for the sport. As she sets her sights on Paris 2024, she remains an inspiration to many.