Born: 1993 (Tbilisi, Georgia)
Biography:
Yana Karapetovna Egorian (Russian: Яна Карапетовна Егорян, Armenian: Յանա Կարապետովնա Եգորեան; also spelled Yegoryan) was born on December 20, 1993, in Tbilisi, Georgia. At the young age of 6, she moved to Khimki, Moscow Oblast, where she would develop into one of the most accomplished sabre fencers in history.
Egorian began her fencing journey at a very young age and quickly showed exceptional talent. She trained at the Khimki Fencing Sports School of Olympic Reserve and the Russian Central Sports Army Club. Representing the Russian Armed Forces, Egorian became known for her exceptional skill with the left-handed sabre.
In her early years, Egorian achieved success at the European Cadet Championships, winning two silver medals in 2009 and 2010. She continued to shine on the international scene, winning two gold medals at the Inaugural 2010 Youth Olympics held in Singapore. Her success continued as she finished fifth at the 2010 Cadet World Championships in Baku.
However, Egorian’s crowning moment came at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. On August 8, she won the individual gold medal, cementing her status as one of the world’s best sabre fencers. Just a few days later, on August 13, she claimed her second gold medal in the team event. Alongside her teammates Sofya Velikaya, Yuliya Gavrilova, and Ekaterina Dyachenko, Egorian led the Russian team to victory, defeating the Ukrainian team in the final.
In addition to her Olympic triumphs, Egorian has also achieved remarkable success at the European and World Championships. She is a six-time team European champion and a two-time team world champion, truly establishing herself as a dominant force in the world of sabre fencing. Her achievements were recognized by the FIE (International Fencing Federation), and she finished 2016 as the number one ranked women’s sabre fencer.
Egorian’s dedication and skill have not gone unnoticed. The Ministry of Sport of the Russian Federation named her The Athlete of the Year, acknowledging her outstanding contributions to the sport of fencing. Her relentless pursuit of excellence has made her an inspiration to aspiring fencers all over the world.
Despite her remarkable accomplishments, Egorian has faced challenges in her sporting career. In May 2023, she was not among the Russian athletes reinstated by the FIE due to her ties with the Russian Army. This decision undoubtedly cast a shadow on her career, but her impact on the sport and her undeniable talent remain undeniable.
Yana Egorian’s journey from Georgia to becoming a world-renowned fencer is a testament to her immense talent and unwavering dedication. Her achievements on the Olympic and international stage have solidified her place in fencing history, and her influence on the sport continues to be felt. Through her accomplishments, Egorian has become a role model for women in sports and a symbol of perseverance and excellence.
Awards:
– Individual Olympic Gold Medal (2016)
– Team Olympic Gold Medal (2016)
– Six-time Team European Champion
– Two-time Team World Champion
– Two Gold Medals at the Inaugural 2010 Youth Olympics
– Two European Cadet Championships Silver Medals (2009, 2010)