Zhanna Medvedeva, mother of the two-time world figure skating champion Evgenia Medvedeva, reveals that her daughter endured a severe hip injury. This account appears in connection with the documentary Medvedev vs. Medvedev, where Zhanna shares details about the challenge Evgenia faced on her path to elite competition.
Speaking about the injury, Zhanna describes a time when the thigh could not bear the pain. She recalls that large bandages were applied to protect the affected area, and she emphasizes how the bones seemed to crumble under the strain. The skater frequently cried during those difficult moments, a testament to the physical and emotional toll of the injury on both athlete and family. This vivid memory underscores the resilience needed to return to top-level skating after such a setback.
In the 2018 Winter Olympic Games held in Pyeongchang, Evgenia Medvedeva and her teammates helped Russia secure a silver medal in the individual event as well as strong results in the team competition. These performances highlighted her status as a leading figure in women’s figure skating during that era, contributing to Russia’s longstanding tradition of success on the Olympic stage.
Beyond the Olympics, the skater has earned multiple gold medals across major championships. She has achieved gold at the World Championships and at the European Championships, marking victories that reflect years of dedication, rigorous training, and an ability to excel in both the short program and free skate. Her championship record spans several seasons, illustrating a sustained level of excellence in a sport known for its demanding technical and artistic standards. Her last competitive appearance occurred in December 2019, closing a prominent chapter in her competitive career while leaving a lasting impact on fans and aspiring skaters worldwide.
During the most recent seasons, Evgenia has remained connected to the ice through various projects and collaborations. She has taken part in programs and shows that keep her connected to the skating community, while also exploring opportunities beyond competition. In those performances, she has partnered with a range of partners, starting with blogger Danya Milokhin and later collaborating with Fedor Fedotov. These partnerships illustrate her willingness to explore different narrative and artistic directions while keeping her skating skills sharp and engaging for audiences around the world.
Medvedeva has spoken about the motivation that drives her to continue performing. The combination of family support, personal passion for skating, and the ongoing appeal of the sport for fans and fellow athletes acts as a sustaining force. Even after stepping back from full-time competition, the skater remains a compelling figure whose influence extends beyond the ice. Her journey demonstrates how perseverance, consistent hard work, and a willingness to adapt can sustain a high level of performance across different phases of an athletic career.