Lilia Podkopayeva Earns Order of Princess Olga, Second Class, through Zelenskyy Decree

Distinguished Recognition at the Olympic House

According to НОК: At the Olympic House, Vadym Guttsait, president of the National Olympic Committee of Ukraine, presented Lilia Podkopayeva with the Order of Princess Olga, II degree. The award was conferred through a decree issued by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in recognition of her outstanding contribution to the advancement of the Olympic movement in Ukraine and in celebration of the NOC's 35th anniversary.

Podkopayeva, an Olympic all-around champion in artistic gymnastics, was praised by Guttsait for her many years of active and meaningful professional work. Guttsait, himself an Olympic fencing champion, spoke about the importance of her legacy within Ukrainian sport.

'I am deeply grateful for this award. It matters greatly to me to keep being part of Ukraine's Olympic movement.' Lilia Podkopayeva

This ceremony highlights how Ukraine values its top athletes and their role in shaping the country's sporting legacy. The honor also sends a clear signal of support for the broader Olympic cause at a time when Ukrainian sport is preparing for future international competitions.

This recognition of Lilia Podkopayeva underscores the importance of honoring exceptional athletes in Ukraine. In a similar vein, the Olympic community recently came together to celebrate another prominent figure in sports. To learn more about the heartfelt birthday wishes extended to Mykhailo Illiashev by the Olympic family, including President Vadym Guttsait, click here.