Coach Alexander Zhulin regards Adelia Petrosyan, a rising star in Eteri Tutberidze’s camp, as the most gifted among her peers. In discussions with Sports24, he suggested that if Kamila Valieva faces disqualification, Adelia Petrosyan could emerge as the frontrunner in the women’s category. Yet Zhulin stressed that nobody crowns Adelia as the indisputable leader of Tutberidze’s group; she trains with discipline and delivers clean, confident jumps, showing a level of artistry and consistency that catches the eye. Adelia’s talent is undeniable, and her trajectory within the group reflects both her work ethic and natural facility on the ice.
Recent results at the Russian Championships highlighted ongoing competitive shifts. Valieva finished third overall, and during the free skate, an issue occurred that affected a quad attempt in the program. In the same event, Adelia Petrosyan delivered a standout performance and claimed the title in her segment, demonstrating the depth of Tutberidze’s school. Sofya Muravyova, a skater trained by Evgeni Plushenko, took second place, underscoring the evolving lineup of Russia’s ladies’ field.
Historically, the 2022 Winter Olympics became a focal point of controversy when questions arose around Valieva, who tested positive for a banned substance in the context of the team event. The case drew intense scrutiny and sparked broader debates about age, pressure, and governance in figure skating. The sport’s governing bodies moved to address the situation through formal procedures, aiming to preserve fairness while considering the athletes’ circumstances and timelines. The ensuing investigation and its implications continued to reverberate through the sport, prompting discussions about athlete support, coaching practices, and the integrity of competition.
As the sport navigates these complex issues, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) prepared to issue its ruling on Valieva’s case on a scheduled date in 2024. The decision held potential to reshape the competitive landscape, influence coaching strategies, and alter the public perception of the athletes involved. Analysts and fans watched closely, weighing the possible outcomes against the long-term development of young skaters within Russia’s top training programs.
Experts and former competitors have offered perspectives on why Valieva’s leadership role within the national team may have shifted. Some point to the emergence of new talents, the adaptation of coaching methods, and the natural progression that accompanies a grueling sport where decades of experience and fresh energy converge. The dynamic within Tutberidze’s group illustrates how an organization balances experience with the rise of younger skaters, maintaining focus on technical excellence while nurturing the artistic growth that distinguishes elite performances. This ongoing evolution reflects both the pressures and the opportunities facing highly visible skaters on the world stage. [Citation: Sports24]