Russian rhythmic gymnastics champion Anna Popova ends career at 19
In short
Anna Popova, a Russian rhythmic gymnastics champion, has ended her career, according to TASS, RBC and RIA Novosti. TASS said a farewell ceremony was held after the gala concert “Love and Light.” RBC reported that Popova, 19, had complex spinal surgery in 2024 and intends to take part in sports shows.
Read the full story 1 min read
Anna Popova, a Russian national champion in rhythmic gymnastics, has ended her career, TASS, RBC and RIA Novosti reported. TASS said the farewell ceremony took place after the gala concert “Love and Light.” [ 1 , 2 , 3 ]
RBC reported that Popova is 19 years old and that she underwent complex spinal surgery in 2024. The documents do not state a reason for her retirement. RBC also reported that she intends to take part in sports shows. [ 2 ]
Why it matters
The retirement removes a national champion from competitive rhythmic gymnastics at a young age. RBC's report that she plans to appear in sports shows suggests she will stay visible in the sport outside competition. The documents give no further detail on consequences for the national team or the sport.
Key facts
- Anna Popova, a Russian national champion in rhythmic gymnastics, has ended her career. [ 1 , 2 , 3 ]
- TASS reported that the farewell ceremony took place after the gala concert “Love and Light.” [ 1 ]
- RBC reported that Popova is 19 years old. [ 2 ]
- RBC reported that Popova underwent complex spinal surgery in 2024. [ 2 ]
- RBC reported that Popova plans to take part in sports shows. [ 2 ]
Confirmed by several sources
Still unclear
- When and where the farewell ceremony took place. TASS says a farewell ceremony was held after the gala concert, but no date or venue is given in the documents.
- Whether the 2024 spinal surgery was the reason for the retirement. Only RBC mentions the surgery, and the documents do not state a reason for her decision.
- What sports shows she intends to take part in. Only RBC mentions her plans, with no further detail.
What local media are saying
Timeline, local time
- TASS reports that the Russian rhythmic gymnastics champion Popova has ended her career, with a farewell ceremony held after the gala concert “Love and Light.” [ 1 ]
- RBC reports that Anna Popova, 19, has ended her career and plans to take part in sports shows. [ 2 ]
- RIA Novosti reports that Russian rhythmic gymnastics champion Anna Popova has ended her career. [ 3 ]