Russian figure skater Katarina Gerboldt weighs in on Alexandra Trusova’s Olympic future and how a new cycle could change the path to gold
Former junior national champion Katarina Gerboldt, a well-known figure in Russian ladies’ skating circles, recently spoke about the possibility of Alexandra Trusova attempting a comeback in the next Olympic cycle. In an interview with socialbites.ca, Gerboldt drew a comparison between Trusova’s recent training interruptions and the unwavering work ethic of Elizaveta Tuktamysheva, who, at 26, continued to train vigorously and did not let gaps in preparation derail her pursuit of excellence. Gerboldt emphasized that Tuktamysheva remained committed to practice and performances, and she noted that joining the Russian team for test skates demonstrated a readiness to push forward. She suggested that if young skaters sustain their training, they can improve their form and be prepared to perform at a high level when opportunities arise. (Citation: socialbites.ca)
Gerboldt observed that the trajectory of a skater’s career is intimately tied to consistency. In her view, the impact of decisions to pause or continue training becomes most visible over time, when athletes are evaluated not only on their results but also on how quickly they regain momentum after breaks. The discussion touched on the broader question of what it takes for a skater to stay competitive across cycles, including the mental and physical aspects of sustaining a demanding schedule. Gerboldt pointed out that the passage of time can reshape a skater’s outlook, with some choosing to take a step back to reassess goals, while others persevere with a daily routine that keeps them aligned with peak condition. (Citation: socialbites.ca)
In late August, Sport-Express reported that Trusova does not plan to compete in the 2023/24 season, a decision that instantly fueled debate about her long-term ambitions and whether there could be a return to major events in the future. The report underscored that a number of external factors influence such choices, including changes in team dynamics, coaching strategies, and the evolving competitive environment. For fans and analysts, the question remains: can a skater who has already achieved significant Olympic success rebuild momentum after a period of absence and still vie for gold on the world stage? (Citation: Sport-Express)
At the 2022 Olympic Games in Beijing, Trusova earned a silver medal after a tense showdown with her compatriot Anna Shcherbakova. The moment was overshadowed by a dramatic scene: before the medal ceremony, Trusova hesitated and declined to walk onto the dais, expressing strong emotions that she might step away from competition entirely. A video capturing her tears circulated widely online, fueling discussions about pressure, expectation, and the toll of high-stakes sport. Analysts noted that such moments have a lasting impact on a skater’s narrative and public perception, even as results on the ice tell a different story. (Citation: Beijing Olympics coverage)
The broader landscape for Russian skaters was altered by international decisions barring participation in certain events, which affected Trusova’s schedule and opportunities. She did not appear at the Russian Championship in the 2022/23 season due to broader restrictions, marking a hiatus in competitive appearances. Her last appearance on the ice came at the Russian Grand Prix in Samara, near the end of November 2022, where she finished in second place. The pause between competitions can complicate the assessment of a skater’s form, and it often requires careful planning to re-enter competition-ready condition. (Citation: event reports)
Gerboldt, reflecting on Trusova’s career arc, did not explicitly rule out a future return, but she acknowledged that a number of factors would need to align for such a comeback to be feasible. The conversation highlighted how the careers of elite athletes are shaped by a mix of personal choice, coaching guidance, and the evolving rules and calendar of international competition. Whether Trusova will choose to pursue another Olympic bid or a different path remains a topic of active discussion among fans and insiders who closely follow the sport. (Citation: socialbites.ca)