Born: 1974
Biography:
Maria Valentina Vezzali, born on 14 February 1974, is an Italian politician and former fencer. She made significant contributions to both fields throughout her illustrious career. From 16 March 2021 to 22 October 2022, she served as the Undersecretary of State to the Presidency of the Council of Ministers, with responsibility for sports in the Draghi government.
Regarded as one of the greatest fencers of all time, Vezzali has amassed an impressive collection of Olympic medals. In total, she has won nine medals at the Olympic Games, including six gold, one silver, and two bronze. Her accomplishment places her among the most decorated and successful athletes in terms of Olympic medals and gold medals. Specifically, Vezzali is hailed as the most successful fencer in foil, the most medaled woman in fencing, and is on par with fellow fencers Edoardo Mangiarotti and Nedo Nadi as the Italian sportswoman with the most gold medals. Furthermore, she holds the distinction of being the second most decorated Italian sportswoman, behind only Mangiarotti.
Vezzali’s Olympic journey began in Atlanta 1996 and extended through to London 2012. She achieved the remarkable feat of winning three Olympic gold medals in a single individual event, making her the sixth athlete in the world to accomplish such a feat. On top of that, she garnered five Olympic podium finishes in total.
Her success was not limited to the Olympic Games. Vezzali also excelled in other international competitions. She clinched 16 World titles, 13 European Championships, five Universiade titles, and two Mediterranean Games titles. Additionally, she triumphed in the World Cup on 11 occasions, with a staggering 78 event victories to her name. Domestically, she claimed 30 national titles, further solidifying her status as a dominant force in the sport.
Beyond her achievements in fencing, Vezzali embarked on a political career. In 2013, she was elected to the XVII Legislature, representing the Marche constituency on the Civic Choice list. Her dedication to public service complemented her sporting prowess, as she became a voice for athletes and sports within the government. Her contributions to both fields earned her a place in the Walk of Fame of Italian sport in 2016.
Valentina Vezzali’s impact extends beyond the confines of her sport and political career. As a trailblazer in women’s fencing, she has inspired countless individuals with her determination, skill, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Her journey has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the fencing world and on women’s history in Italy.
Awards:
– Olympic Games:
– Gold: 6 medals
– Silver: 1 medal
– Bronze: 2 medals
– World Championships: 16 titles
– European Championships: 13 titles
– Universiade: 5 titles
– Mediterranean Games: 2 titles
– World Cup: 11 titles
– National Titles: 30 titles