In 2023, Russian Olympic champion Roman Kostomarov found himself at the center of a national conversation after a severe medical crisis. A public poll conducted by VTsIOM showed that 8% of those surveyed named Kostomarov as the athlete of the year. Close behind, figure skater Kamila Valieva captured 5% of the votes. Other athletes who drew small public interest included Alexandra Trusova, Evgenia Medvedeva, skier Alexander Bolshunov, and hockey star Alexander Ovechkin, each receiving 2% of the poll. A large portion of respondents, 72%, admitted uncertainty when asked to pick a sportsperson of the year, while 7% mentioned different athletes not listed in the poll.
Early January 2023 marked a dramatic turn. After New Year performances at an open-air show, Kostomarov was admitted to intensive care with pneumonia. His condition deteriorated rapidly and he required respiratory support, being placed on a ventilator. Doctors evaluated his situation as extremely serious and he was transferred to Kommunarka hospital, where he underwent procedures to restore circulation and oxygenation using advanced life support. He remained connected to these systems for an extended period as his body fought the infection.
The illness brought serious complications. Doctors detected gangrene, which led to multiple amputations. Kostomarov lost both legs and parts of his hands during the course of treatment. After a lengthy stay at Kommunarka, totaling 175 days, he was discharged from the hospital on a later date. The journey underscored the unpredictable path that can accompany severe infections and the resilience required to begin rehabilitation after such life-changing events.
Earlier reports touched on Kamila Valieva as well, noting that she sent a photo of her Evening Dress from the Russian Championship draw. This detail added to the public interest during a year already filled with high-profile sporting achievements and medical emergencies that kept fans and analysts focused on the narratives behind each athlete’s season.