Smirnova (Anna)

Anna Smirnova is a Russian sabre fencer who competes internationally. Smirnova has participated in both individual and team events, gradually building her reputation in the world of fencing.Smirnova gained significant media attention during the 2023 World Fencing Championships in Milan, Italy. On July 27, 2023, she faced Ukrainian fencer Olga Kharlan. Following their bout, Kharlan refused to shake hands with Smirnova due to Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine instead offering a blade tap as an alternative gesture. This incident, set against the backdrop of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, led to Kharlan's controversial disqualification by FIE officials, sparking debates about sportsmanship and politics in international competitions. [ClaudeAI, edited]