They will engage in state activities
The multiple world champions in rhythmic gymnastics, sisters Dina and Arina Averina, have ended their sports careers. This was announced by the president of the All-Russian Rhythmic Gymnastics Federation (VFGF) and the head coach of the Russian national team, Irina Viner.
“Today is a very sad news. I will cry now. Today Dina and Arina Averina told me that they will no longer compete. We have come a long way with them. Thank you to them,” said the head of the VFGF at a gala concert dedicated to Defender of the Fatherland Day, as reported by RIA Novosti.
Later, she clarified that the athletes are now engaged in state activities. “Dina and Arina have made this decision. But they have done a great deed and are now involved in state work. They are Olympic champions,” said Viner.
The sisters themselves have not specified what exactly they plan to do. “We have many plans for the future. This is a new stage in our lives, but it will be interesting and fulfilling, although challenging. Gymnastics will remain in our hearts. We continue to participate in shows,” quoted the athletes by RIA Novosti.
Earlier, the gymnasts had said that they would end their careers if Russians were not allowed to participate in the 2024 Olympic Games. In November, Viner expressed hope that in the future they will return to the gym and train children.
The Averina sisters are 25 years old. Dina is a silver medalist at the Tokyo Olympics, an 18-time world champion, and has also won silver three times and bronze once at world championships. At the European Championships, she won ten gold medals, four silver, and one bronze. Dina Averina holds the record for the most wins in world championships.
Arina Averina has won five times at world championships, has been a silver medalist six times and won bronze five times. She also has nine gold and one bronze medal at the European Championships to her name.