Lilia Podkopaeva Gymnast. Date of Birth: 15.08.1978 Country: Ukraine

1. Biography of Lilia Podkopayeva
2. Gymnastics Career
3. Olympic Success
4. Education and Achievements
5. Awards and Honors
6. Recognition
7. Later Career

Biography of Lilia Podkopayeva

Lilia Alexandrovna Podkopayeva is a gymnast, a distinguished master of sports of Ukraine (1994), and an international judge. She was born on August 15, 1978, in Donetsk.

Gymnastics Career

Lilia Podkopayeva is a highly accomplished gymnast, having won numerous medals throughout her career. She is the winner of the European Cup (1995) and has earned 45 gold, 21 silver, and 14 bronze medals. In 1995, she became the World Champion in artistic gymnastics, and in 1996, she became the European Champion.

Olympic Success

In 1996, at the XVI Olympic Games in Atlanta, Lilia Podkopayeva achieved great success by winning two gold medals. She emerged as the absolute champion and also won the gold medal in the floor exercise event.

Education and Achievements

After her successful gymnastics career, Lilia Podkopayeva pursued her education. In 2001, she graduated from the National University of Physical Education and Sports. She later studied at the Donetsk State Academy of Management.

Awards and Honors

Lilia Podkopayeva has been honored with several awards throughout her career. She was awarded the Cross "For Courage" in 1996 and received the Order of Merit (II degree) and the Order of St. Stanislaus. She also organized the annual tournament named "Golden Lily" in her honor.

Recognition

In 2006, the Ukrainian Postal Service released a postage stamp featuring Lilia Podkopayeva. Additionally, in 2008, the United Nations released a postage stamp in the United States to commemorate Lilia Podkopayeva's thirtieth anniversary.

Later Career

In 2006, Lilia Podkopayeva emerged victorious in the Ukrainian version of the show "Dancing with the Stars." She represented Ukraine alongside Sergey Kostetsky at the "Dancing Eurovision 2008," which took place in September 2008.