Three-time Olympic champion Irina Rodnina publicly weighed in on Elizaveta Tuktamysheva’s choice to pause competitive skating and pivot toward ice shows, urging the skater to avoid second thoughts or regret. Rodnina emphasized that taking a break is a natural part of an athlete’s journey, a common rhythm in sports as athletes reassess goals, training loads, and aspirations. The veteran champion, speaking to Sports Express, framed the decision as a personal turning point rather than a setback, suggesting that time away can refresh passion and lead to renewed clarity about what comes next in a skating career.
Earlier, on October 18, it was reported by RIA Novosti that Tuktamysheva had elected not to compete in the current season and would instead concentrate on performing in ice shows. This shift indicated a strategic move from full-season competition to global touring, enabling the skater to maintain stage presence, explore new repertoire, and manage the physical demands of a longer performance schedule without the rigors of a tightly packed competitive calendar.
In late December, Tuktamysheva achieved a podium finish at the Russian Championship, securing bronze with 241.72 points. The field was led by Sofia Akatieva, who earned 249.74 points, and Kamila Valieva, who took second with 247.32 points. The results reflected a season where the skater balanced past success with a continued push for personal evolution, following a year that also featured strong showings at major events and tours. Earlier in the season, she had claimed victory in stages of the Russian Grand Prix in both Moscow and Perm, underscoring her ongoing competitiveness and popular appeal with fans across the country.
Looking back to 2022, Tuktamysheva made a notable mark by earning the silver medal at the World Championships in single skating, a testament to her technical skill and artistry on the ice. She also contributed to Russia’s world team championship, highlighting her role in team events alongside her individual achievements. These milestones collectively illustrate a dynamic career characterized by resilience, consistent performance, and the ability to adapt to the changing demands of elite figure skating.
There have been hints of a personal dimension shaping her public narrative, including remarks that allude to romantic relationships. Such personal factors often accompany prominent athletes, influencing media coverage and public perception, yet they do not define the professional arc of a skater who has repeatedly demonstrated resilience and high-level performance on the world stage. The ongoing conversation around Tuktamysheva centers on how athletes navigate transitions, preserve their legacy, and decide when to pursue new professional opportunities while honoring their past achievements. This broader context helps fans and observers appreciate the careful balance between ambition, health, and personal fulfillment that accompanies a long and storied skating career.