Alina Zagitova’s Journey: From Olympic Champion to TV Host and Public Figure
Alina Zagitova, the 2018 Olympic figure skating champion, expanded her presence beyond the rink by taking on the role of host for the Ice Age program on Europe Plus radio. This hosting experience reportedly contributed to strengthening her composure and resilience in the face of on-air scrutiny and public attention.
There was a moment when Zagitova was asked about her future beyond skating. The conversation touched on whether she would become a homeowner with a steady media presence. The adult variety program Ice Age has featured many personalities from the entertainment world, including figures from the skating community. Interviewing high-profile guests proved stressful for Zagitova, yet she, in hindsight, believes the challenges helped her grow. The experience showcased a level of bravery that not all individuals possess, and it underscored how facing negative reactions publicly can forge stronger character in life.
Alongside her illustrious Olympic success, Zagitova has earned gold medals at the World Championships in 2019 and secured top positions at the European Championships in both 2018 and 2019. She is recognized as the second skater in global history to win all major Russian singles titles in addition to capturing world titles in figure skating, a feat previously achieved by Kim Yuna. This rare combination highlights Zagitova’s dominance across both national and international stages during her peak years.
After missing competitions in 2020 and 2021, Zagitova did not publicly declare retirement. In February 2022, she participated as the captain in a team competition known as the Channel One Cup, where her team, affectionately nicknamed the Red Machine, emerged victorious. During this period, Zagitova also co-hosted the Ice Age program with Olympic champion Alexei Yagudin, continuing her engagement with skating audiences beyond competitive events. These roles illustrate her ongoing influence in the sport and her ability to transition into television and event hosting while maintaining a connection to fans and fellow skaters alike.
In August, Zagitova found herself at the center of a series of controversies. One incident involved a misstatement during an interview concerning hockey, which drew broad public attention and debate. Subsequently, she shared content showing her crossing a pedestrian crosswalk at a green signal while driving, a clip that sparked additional discussion about safety and public responsibility. These moments reflect the challenging scrutiny that public figures often face as they navigate media representation and personal choices.
Earlier in her public life, Zagitova had already displayed a distinctive style that some observers described as “vagrant” or unconventional. This characterization, like many aspects of celebrity culture, contributed to the evolving public narrative around her persona as an athlete, entertainer, and public figure. Through the highs of championship glory and the lows of controversy, Zagitova’s story presents a portrait of perseverance, adaptability, and the complex balance between athletic excellence and media visibility. The arc continues to resonate with fans who followed her skating career and now follow her appearances in broadcasts and public appearances, illustrating the enduring connection between elite sport and media involvement and the ongoing discussion about responsibility and resilience in the public eye.