Alexey Yakimenko

Sport: Fencing

Nation: Russian Federation

DOB: October 31, 1983

Career Highlights: Ranked second in the world, Yakimenko will be making his third Olympic appearance and is looking for a return to the podium, having earned a team bronze in Athens. Beijing, however, proved to be a disappointment, as he was among the favorites to win gold coming into the 2008 Games, but lost in the opening round of individual competition. Yakimenko was also part of the Russian team that fell in the bronze medal match. A three-time gold medalist in team competition at the world championships, he will again be among the medal favorites in London, having earned individual gold in the 2011 and 2010 European championships. He finished last year with the top overall ranking, but was upset in the round of 16 at worlds. Yakimenko is now coached by the renowned Christian Bauer, who has been tasked with turning around the Russian team after taking over in 2010.

Olympic History: 2008,2004