Former goalkeeper Ruslan Nigmatullin reflects on his 25-year marriage and career after news of his divorce
The former goalkeeper who once defended the nets for Moscow clubs Spartak and Lokomotiv, Ruslan Nigmatullin, recently sat down for a candid conversation with sports.ru to discuss his personal life and professional journey. He confirmed that his marriage, which lasted more than a quarter of a century, ended due to infidelity on the part of his spouse, Elena. Yet he stressed that the breakup involved other layers as well, revealing a broader picture of the decision to part ways after many years of shared life.
Nigmatullin emphasized that his request for respect was tied not only to his role in the family but to the level of participation he maintained within family life. He described himself as having been selfless for two decades, shouldering responsibilities and continuing to do so. When pressed about infidelity and its role in the divorce, he stated clearly that infidelity was not the sole cause of the breakup, underscoring a multifaceted decision about the future. The narrative centers on a sense of mutual respect and ongoing commitment to family responsibilities rather than a single moment of breach.
News of the split between Ruslan Nigmatullin and Elena became public in December 2023. The couple began their life together in 1998, a long period marked by shared experiences in both personal and professional spheres. While primarily known for his career in Russian football, Nigmatullin also spent time playing abroad, including stints with Salernitana and Verona in Italy. He eventually wrapped up his playing days in 2009 while with the Israeli club Maccabi Ahi Nazareth, concluding a diverse run across multiple leagues.
Following his retirement from the field, Nigmatullin shifted his creative focus toward music and embraced the role of a DJ. He performed across several continents, bringing his musical talents to venues throughout Europe, North America, and Turkey. His evolving career in music reflected a broad artistic curiosity and a desire to explore new avenues after football.
In November 2023, Nigmatullin was again in the public eye, named to the squad for a retro match between Lokomotiv and CSKA. This appearance highlighted his enduring connection to the sport and its history, even as his professional path diversified beyond active competition. There were previous remarks from Nigmatullin noting that his children had reduced contact with him, a point that adds another layer to the complex portrait of his post-retirement life and family relationships. The comments underscore the emotional challenges that can accompany public figures as they navigate parenthood alongside personal reinvention.
Overall, the narrative around Nigmatullin in recent years blends a storied football career with a life outside the game that includes music, public appearances, and evolving family dynamics. This combination paints a portrait of a multi-faceted figure who has adapted to life after peak athletic performance while continuing to engage with fans and peers through various platforms. The dialogue around his divorce touches on long-standing commitments, respect within family life, and the realities that accompany enduring partnerships over many years, offering a nuanced view of personal growth beyond the arena of professional sports. Source: sports.ru