Figure skating coach Eteri Tutberidze spoke on the YouTube channel Comment. Show about Kamila Valieva, noting that the doping scandal appears to have altered the skater’s sense of trust. Tutberidze described Valieva as once a friendly, open kid who now seems to carry a heavier skepticism toward people around him, suggesting that the events have left a lasting impression on his outlook.
The controversy surrounding Valieva emerged during the 2022 Olympic Games after a test from December 2021 indicated the presence of a banned substance. The situation sparked intense debates about eligibility and fairness, with authorities weighing whether to disqualify the athlete from competing. In a surprising turn just before the women’s individual event began, organizers decided to permit Valieva to participate in the tournament, a decision that drew wide-ranging reactions from fans, officials, and fellow competitors.
Although Valieva did not win a medal in the individual discipline, the Russian team secured first place in the team event. A positive outcome for Valieva in the individual could have had broader implications, possibly affecting the team’s medal status depending on future rulings. Upcoming hearings at the Court of Arbitration for Sport were scheduled for November 9 and 10 to review the case, with a UK-based attorney representing Valieva’s interests in the proceedings [Source: Court of Arbitration for Sport].
Valieva is slated to compete at the Russian Grand Prix in November, continuing to participate in high-profile events on the skating calendar. In the wake of the doping controversy, assessments from coaches and sports officials emphasized resilience and the importance of moving forward with a focus on training and performance. Previous guidance for Valieva stressed perseverance and maintaining focus on goals despite the scrutiny and pressure that accompany elite competition [Source: Court of Arbitration for Sport].