Olympic ice dancing champion Roman Kostomarov says he is training with a plan to skate with poise and precision, aiming to avoid any look of stiffness on the ice. His comments outline a return path that keeps him focused on performance and grace, even as he navigates a challenging rehabilitation journey. The message from Kostomarov emphasizes ongoing effort and control, and it resonates with fans who have watched his career evolve into a broader showcase of athletic resilience. [Attribution: TASS]
He described his mindset as he steps back onto the ice, noting that he can still perform at a level worthy of a show, drawing on the confidence he built while performing for audiences around the world. Yet he acknowledges the difficulty of reclaiming his former speed and fluidity. The goal, he says, is not simply to skate but to demonstrate presence, timing, and artistry on the ice, even if his mechanics have changed. He stresses that the effort is real and the ambition remains high, hoping to transition from competitive routines to spectacular show performances with authentic charm. [Attribution: TASS]
In January 2023, Kostomarov experienced a serious health crisis after New Year’s performances at an outdoor event. Reports indicated he was hospitalized and placed in intensive care due to pneumonia, with life-sustaining support involved during a critical phase. He subsequently received treatment at Kommunarka, where the medical team faced and managed severe complications. Parts of his limbs were affected by the illness, marking a profound shift in his athletic trajectory. The event was a turning point that brought the realities of recovery into sharp focus for him and his supporters. [Attribution: TASS]
By July 2023, Kostomarov had been discharged from hospital care and began a painstaking paperwork of recovery that included rehabilitation and adaptive training. On June 26, he shared footage of himself training with prosthetic legs, signaling a concrete step in reclaiming movement and balance. Later, on August 22, Kostomarov and his wife Oksana joined Ilya Averbukh’s ice show Love Letters in Sochi, marking his first ice appearance in front of an audience since the illness. The moment underscored his enduring connection to the ice and his commitment to fans who supported him through the interruption. [Attribution: TASS]
Previously Kostomarov had spoken about his altered sensory perception of the ice, noting that the feel is no longer the same as before. The experience highlights how recovery can redefine an athlete’s relationship with the rink, demanding new techniques, adaptive training, and a different rhythm of performance. Yet the core passion for skating remains, driving him to explore every possible path to reclaim a sense of mastery on the ice. [Attribution: TASS]