«Художественная гимнастика для меня никогда не была просто спортом»
Russian rhythmic gymnastics champion Anna Popova has officially announced her retirement from competitive sport at the age of 19, following a severe spinal injury and major surgery. «Сегодня я официально заканчиваю карьеру гимнастки… Художественная гимнастика для меня никогда не была просто спортом. Это мое детство, моя юность, моя жизнь и огромная часть меня», — написала российская гимнастка в социальных сетях, объявив о завершении своего спортивного пути в возрасте 19 лет. The announcement came after a gala performance titled “Love and Light” dedicated to Teacher’s Day, according to reporting by TASS cited by spbdnevnik.ru.
Titanium Implants and Years of Competing Through Chronic Pain
Popova, who captured the Russian national all-around title in 2023 and earned two gold medals at the BRICS Games, sustained significant physical trauma during her career. In December 2024, she underwent major back surgery where surgeons installed four titanium vertebrae. Former Russian national team head coach Irina Viner detailed that the gymnast competed for years with chronic back pain due to congenital spinal issues, ultimately paying a high physical price for her victory at the BRICS Games.
«Она не стала чемпионкой мира только потому, что в ее время нас не пускали на эти турниры. У нее с детства были определенные проблемы с позвоночником, она всегда выступала с болью в спине, выступала блестяще и никогда не жаловалась на это», — отметила Винер в комментариях.
Irina Viner Appoints the Young Champion as Her Successor
Despite stepping away from elite competition, Popova remains closely tied to the sport’s leadership. Viner revealed that she has appointed the young champion to take on a role as her replacement.
«А потом я ей сказала: „Ты должна быть моей помощницей, ты должна быть моей заменой, ты должна мне помогать“, — заявила Винер, поддерживая решение спортсменки завершить профессиональные выступления.”
Viner emphasized that despite missing out on world championship appearances due to international bans during her peak years, Popova demonstrated extraordinary resilience. The gymnast continued rigorous training even after her extensive spinal reconstruction before ultimately deciding to transition out of elite competition.
Popova Will Perform and Teach Gymnastics
While her days of chasing championship medals have concluded, Popova confirmed she will maintain a visible presence in the gymnastics community through artistic performance and instruction. «Просто теперь я выхожу на ковер не за медалью, а ради искусства, эмоций и любви к этому виду спорта», — написала Попова в своем заявлении. She plans to perform in concerts and sports shows, participate in projects, and conduct master classes to share her expertise with the next generation.
In her farewell message, Popova expressed profound gratitude to her family, fans, and coaching staff, specifically acknowledging Vera Shatalina, Yulia Barsukova, Irina Zinovka, Veronika Shatkova, and Dina and Arina Averina for their mentorship throughout her athletic development.
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