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Jessica Gadirova: A Remarkable Journey in Artistic Gymnastics

Updated: Feb 20

We've blogged about Jessica before, but as she's currently on Team GB we wanted to add more, more, more!!




Date of Birth: 3rd October 2004

Meet Jessica Gadirova, an extraordinary English artistic gymnast born on the 3rd of October 2004, with Irish birth and Azerbaijani descent, who has been making waves on the global gymnastics stage, representing Great Britain with distinction.


Olympic Glory and Team Success

Jessica Gadirova's rise to gymnastic stardom began at the 2020 Summer Olympics, where she showcased her talent and contributed to the team's success. She played a vital role in securing a bronze medal for Great Britain in the team event, marking a historic achievement for her and her teammates.


World Championships and European Triumphs

The 2022 World Championships witnessed Jessica's brilliance as she was part of the silver medal-winning Great Britain team, solidifying her reputation as a key player in the international gymnastics scene. However, her individual achievements set her apart.

In the same year, she clinched the World Championship title on the floor exercise, becoming only the second British female and the third Briton ever to win a World title on this apparatus. Her remarkable triumphs on the floor continued, as she became a three-time European champion on the same event in 2021, 2022, and 2023. Jessica Gadirova's consistency and excellence have made her the first female gymnast to win three successive floor titles at the European Artistic Gymnastics Championships since 1965.


All-Around Excellence

Gadirova's exceptional abilities extend beyond individual apparatus. In 2023, she became the European all-around champion, following in the footsteps of Ellie Downie as the second Briton to achieve this feat. Her journey to this prestigious title showcased her all-around brilliance and determination.


European Championships Dominance

Jessica Gadirova has carved her name in history by becoming the first female gymnast to win three gold medals at the same European Championships since Cătălina Ponor in 2004. Furthermore, she was the first gymnast, regardless of gender, to secure the all-around title at the same event since Svetlana Khorkina in 2002. Her performances at the European Championships have solidified her status as one of the sport's brightest stars.


Domestic Success

At home, Jessica Gadirova is a force to be reckoned with. She is a three-time English and three-time British champion, consistently showcasing her dominance on the national stage.


Early Beginnings and Family Heritage

Jessica Gadirova's gymnastics journey began at the age of six, along with her twin sister Jennifer, under the encouragement of their mother. Born in Dublin, Ireland, and of Azerbaijani descent, the Gadirova family emigrated to London in 2001, where Jessica and Jennifer were born. Jessica's heritage includes Azerbaijani, Irish, and British citizenship, a testament to her multicultural background. Her paternal grandparents, residing in Baku, have impressive careers in the medical and academic fields.


Gymnastics Career Milestones

  • In her early career, Jessica Gadirova participated in the British Espoir Championships in 2016, showcasing her potential.

  • As a junior gymnast in 2018 and 2019, she competed at various national and international events, gaining valuable experience.

  • In 2021, as a senior gymnast, Gadirova made a significant impact by winning bronze in the all-around at the European Championships. She also excelled on the vault and floor exercise.

  • Her remarkable journey continued at the 2020 Summer Olympics, where she played a crucial role in Great Britain's historic team bronze.

  • Jessica's achievements in 2022 included gold at the English Championships, the British Championships, and the European Championships.

  • At the 2022 World Championships, she claimed the all-around bronze, vault silver, and a historic gold on the floor exercise.

  • In 2023, Jessica secured her status as the European all-around champion and continued her dominance on the floor exercise.

Beyond Gymnastics

In addition to her gymnastics achievements, Jessica Gadirova became a brand ambassador for gymnastics leotard manufacturer Milano Pro-Sport in December 2021. Her impact extends beyond the gym, inspiring many with her dedication and success.


Youngest World Champion and Accolades

Jessica Gadirova's win at the 2022 World Championships on the floor exercise made her the youngest British gymnast to become a World Champion at just 18 years and 34 days old. Her extraordinary achievements did not go unnoticed, as she received prestigious awards such as the Sunday Times Young Sportswoman of the Year and the Sports Journalists' Association Peter Wilson Trophy for international newcomer.


Continuing Success in 2023

In 2023, Jessica Gadirova continued her journey, competing at the English Championships and securing her position on the Great Britain team for the upcoming European Championships and the 2023 World Championships.


Jessica Gadirova's remarkable journey in artistic gymnastics is a testament to her talent, dedication, and multicultural heritage. Her achievements on the international and domestic stages have made her a role model for aspiring gymnasts worldwide. As she looks forward to future challenges, the gymnastics community eagerly anticipates more extraordinary accomplishments from this young and talented athlete.




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