Alina Kabaeva

Biography

Alina Maratovna Kabaeva was born on May 12, 1983, in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, then part of the Soviet Union. She became one of the top rhythmic gymnasts in the sport's history, winning an impressive number of medals at the Olympic, World Championship, and European Championship levels. Kabaeva is recognized as an Honoured Master of Sports by the Russian government for her outstanding athletic achievements. She studied at Lesgaft National State University of Physical Education, Sport and Health, and the Russian State University of Tourism and Services Studies while pursuing her sports career. She has received the Order for Merit to the Fatherland, 4th class, and the Order of Friendship.

Kabaeva's results placed her among the top rhythmic gymnasts globally. She won 2 Olympic medals, 14 World Championship medals, and 21 European Championship medals as an individual gymnast. Her gold medal at the 2004 Athens Olympics was the peak of her athletic career. Trained by the well-known coach Irina Viner, Kabaeva became associated with Russian dominance in rhythmic gymnastics during the late 1990s and early 2000s.

After retiring from competitive gymnastics, Kabaeva went into politics. From 2007 to 2014, she was a State Duma deputy representing the United Russia party. Her time in politics drew a lot of public and media interest, partly due to ongoing rumors of a romantic relationship with Russian president Vladimir Putin, claims neither has confirmed or denied.

In September 2014, Kabaeva became the chairwoman of the board of directors of the National Media Group, one of Russia's largest media companies, managing major television channels and print publications. This role put her at the heart of Russian media during a time of increased tension between Russia and Western countries. As of 2025, she is also the head coach of rhythmic gymnastics in Russia, taking over from her former coach Irina Viner. Her career thus includes elite sports, national politics, major media management, and coaching.