Former Olympic figure skater Roman Kostomarov has expressed a cautious intent to return to the ice, revealing that he will give skating another try on the broadcast version of Sports Express. He underscored that this comeback would not mirror his pre-illness performances, acknowledging a lasting change in his physical capabilities while emphasizing a determination to move again on the ice.
Kostomarov explained that the body he has now is different from the one that once carried him through successful routines. He said he misses the specific parts needed for elite figure skating and that, after attempting to step onto the rink, the effort reminded him how far he has come from his peak. He described his current skating as something more akin to performing a show, comparing it to the polished routines of show business stars rather than his former competitive self. This candid reflection highlighted both the physical and emotional adjustments he is navigating on this extended journey back to motion.
Earlier in January 2023, Kostomarov faced a severe health crisis following a public performance outdoors. He was admitted to intensive care in a state described as extremely serious, requiring mechanical ventilation due to pneumonia. The situation necessitated a rapid transfer to a specialized hospital in Kommunarka, where he underwent resuscitation and was connected to an extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) machine. During this critical phase of treatment, Kostomarov endured the amputation of both feet and hands, a devastating consequence that marked a profound turning point in his life and sport.
By the beginning of July 2023, the skater had been discharged from hospital care, marking a difficult but hopeful milestone in his recovery. On June 26, he shared a video showing his first steps back into training with prosthetics, signaling a gradual rebuilding of strength and coordination. By late August, Kostomarov, accompanied by his wife Oksana, appeared in Ilya Averbukh’s ice show titled “Love Letters” in Sochi. The performance represented his first appearance on the ice in front of an audience since the hospitalization, offering a meaningful moment of connection with fans and a tangible sign of progression in his rehabilitation.
When asked about what sport or activity he might pursue next, Kostomarov hinted at exploring options that align with his current abilities while keeping the door open to new possibilities. The family and supporters have followed his progress closely, witnessing a journey defined by resilience and a steady redefinition of athletic identity in the wake of life‑altering medical interventions. The road ahead remains uncertain, though the persistence of Kostomarov’s spirit continues to inspire those who have watched his career unfold from the early days of his rise to international prominence to the challenging years that followed.