Sofia Raffaeli, born January 19, 2004, in Chiaravalle, Italy, is a trailblazing rhythmic gymnast dubbed the “Atomic Ant” for her petite frame and explosive power. Starting in artistic gymnastics at age three, she switched to rhythmic at seven, training under coach Julieta Cantaluppi at Fabriano Gymnastics Society.
Her breakthrough came in 2019 with three junior world silvers. In 2022, she dominated: first Italian all-around gold at World Cup Athens, Europe’s inaugural individual titles in hoop and clubs, and a stunning four golds (all-around, hoop, ball, ribbon) plus team gold at Worlds in Sofia—Italy’s first individual world title.
Silver all-around at 2023 Worlds, bronze at Paris 2024 Olympics, and 2025 Worlds all-around bronze followed. A four-time national champion, she’s Italy’s most decorated rhythmic gymnast, blending artistry and athleticism in routines set to Sinatra and Italian classics.
The Italian rhythmic gymnast, Sofia Raffaeli, dances; she is definitely not from this world. pic.twitter.com/LyOspbaWWZ
— The Figen (@TheFigen_) October 30, 2025