Diving athlete Maria Bruenok is at the center of accusations against coach Pavel Muyakin, who is alleged to have harassed her. The athlete explained why she did not report the incident to police, conveying that the conversation about the matter began within the sport itself as a step toward addressing the issue through federation channels. According to Bruenok, efforts were made to resolve the situation quietly within the sport first, and she stated that the decision to involve law enforcement would come if necessary, but authorities were not brought in because those involved hoped for a peaceful resolution inside the federation. In Bruenok’s words, that approach ultimately did not succeed.
Bruenok indicated that on January 31, the mentor kissed him on the lips and sent erotic messages. He and the personal trainer prepared a formal statement to the federation alleging harassment by Muyakin. Following this, Muyakin faced a suspension from coaching duties. The incident at the pool in Saratov, where athletes were training on January 30, prompted Bruenok to submit the statement, marking a key moment in the case.
The Russian Diving Federation announced the formation of an independent commission to conduct a formal investigation. Muyakin, aged 61, rejected the allegations, describing Bruenok’s claims as unfounded.
Bruenok is noted as a laureate of the Russian Championship and a member of the national team. The athlete has previously responded to criticism that arose in relation to the situation.