Elizaveta Tuktamysheva, the accomplished Russian figure skater, recently discussed whether she still feels the pull of major competitions. In a candid interview with Match TV, she clarified that even without formal competitive practice, she remains deeply connected to the ice and to the world of skating. Her days are still spent on the rink, a constant rhythm that keeps her in touch with the sport she loves.
“I can’t say I miss figure skating in the traditional sense, because I’m always on the ice”, she stated. She explained that she continues to collaborate with teammates at the Yubileiny Sports Complex and that her on-ice involvement now includes mentoring and assisting fellow skater Alexey Nikiforovich [Mishin]. Beyond exhibitions, she participates in shows and trains to stay physically fit for performance appearances. Life has shifted toward a more relaxed pace, with no heavy training load, which she views as a positive development, especially since constant training can be exhausting over time”, the skater noted.
Looking ahead, Tuktamysheva, who is set to celebrate her 28th birthday in 2024, announced a pause from professional competition for the 2023/24 season. In the previous season, she claimed victories in the fourth stage of the Russian Grand Prix in Moscow and the sixth stage in Perm, demonstrating her competitive prowess and adaptability as the sport evolves.
On December 24, 2022, she earned bronze at the Russian Championship with a total of 241.72 points, a result that reflected the spirited competition at the national level. Sofia Akatieva led the event with 249.74 points, and Kamila Valieva took second place with 247.32 points. Due to the circumstances surrounding the competition, Tuktamysheva’s podium placement was recalibrated, moving her to the silver position on the results sheet. The event underscored the depth of talent within Russian ladies’ figure skating as the season approached its conclusion.
The international skating community faced a significant shift when the International Skating Union (ISU) suspended Russian and Belarusian athletes from competition in the spring of 2022, following guidance from the International Olympic Committee. The ISU confirmed this stance at its Congress in early June, describing the situation as uncertain and subject to ongoing review. As a result, several Russian skaters concluded their international seasons ahead of schedule while national events continued to showcase high-level performances. These changes have influenced how skaters approach training cycles, competition planning, and public engagement during periods of transition.
In reflecting on the broader landscape, Tuktamysheva has not noticed a fundamental difference in the competitive dynamic between Russian skaters and their international peers. The spirit of the sport remains intact for her, with competitive resolve and the drive to push technical and artistic boundaries continuing to define her approach. Her experience highlights how athletes adapt to evolving regulations and schedules while maintaining a passion for performance that resonates with audiences around the world.