Russian figure skater Alena Kostornaya is progressing through her shoulder surgery recovery on track, according to initial assessments reported by TASS. Officials close to the medical team describe the process as steady, with milestones being met as planned. Kostornaya herself noted that walking without a brace is permitted, giving her the chance to lace up and skate, even briefly, while keeping all other rehabilitation milestones aligned with the prescribed timeline (TASS).
The athlete’s coaching situation has evolved over time. At the beginning of 2023, Elena Buyanova, Kostornaya’s former coach, indicated that the skater had begun a new phase by exploring pair skating. Since autumn 2022, Kostornaya has trained with Georgy Kunitsa under the supervision of Sergei Roslyakov, focusing on balance, technique, and the mental shifts required to compete again after surgery (TASS).
On August 13, Kostornaya and Kunitsa marked a personal milestone by tying the knot. The couple’s partnership extended onto the ice the following month, when they appeared together at the Russian national team test skates. They debuted a free program choreographed to the soundtrack of a well-known film, signaling their intent to integrate new dynamics into their program repertoire and to showcase their evolving technique on the ice (TASS).
Looking back at recent history, the skating world faced significant disruptions in early 2022. The International Olympic Committee advised international sports federations to suspend participation by Russian and Belarusian athletes in most events, a decision echoed by the International Skating Union. As a result, competitors from both nations were temporarily barred from a range of competitions, prompting athletes to adapt their training and competition plans under unprecedented restrictions (IOC and ISU).
Earlier updates highlighted Kostornaya’s successful return to the ice following the initial shoulder procedure. The progression from surgery to on-ice practice has been closely monitored by medical staff and coaching teams, with an emphasis on gradual load management and technique preservation to guard against setbacks. The commitment to a careful, staged return underscores the focus on long-term health and performance sustainability rather than rapid, high-risk reintegration (TASS).
In terms of competitive strategy, Kostornaya’s path reflects a broader pattern seen among top skaters recovering from shoulder injuries. The emphasis remains on rebuilding strength, confidence, and edge control while integrating new choreography and partnering elements. Observers note that the dynamic with Kunitsa could present fresh tactical possibilities for Kostornaya, enabling a broader range of maneuvers and a renewed competitive profile as they work toward upcoming national and international opportunities (TASS).
Fans and analysts alike have watched Kostornaya navigate the post-surgical period with a blend of patience and anticipation. The athlete has consistently expressed commitment to a measured timeline, avoiding pressures that could jeopardize long-term health. With each milestone reached—whether it’s controlled ice time, synchronized partner drills, or successful execution of a new program—the narrative around her comeback grows stronger, highlighting resilience, discipline, and a clear dedication to return to peak form (TASS).