Irina Viner, the head coach of the Russian rhythmic gymnastics team, has recently sparked interest with her frank remarks during an interview with journalist Nadezhda Streletz. At 76 years old, Viner reflected on her lengthy career, addressing both the controversies surrounding her coaching methods and her personal life, including her high-profile divorce from billionaire Alisher Usmanov.
Among the most notable controversies was Viner's relationship with Olympic champion Margarita Mamun, who accused Viner of manipulating her feelings concerning her father's battle with cancer to push her performance. Responding to these claims, Viner shared her perspective, stating, "I told her every time: 'Pray to God for your dad. Stand for him for long and pray to God for your dad'." She emphasized her attempt to support Mamun and insisted, "This manipulation prolonged his life before he took her gold medal." Such comments reveal Viner's deep emotional investment in her athletes, as well as the complexity of their relationships.
Viner's commentary on discipline also highlights her strict coaching philosophy, which has drawn both admiration and criticism over the years. She expressed, "Discipline is also talent," noting the need for gymnasts to arrive on time and fully engage during training sessions. Viner stated, "If I had said 'thank you' to Mamun after mistakes, the normal gymnast would have been shocked because it's not the truth.'" This indicates her belief in the need for honesty and rigor in training, even if it sometimes leads to conflicts.
Switching gears to her personal life, Viner candidly discussed her 30-year marriage to Usmanov, describing it as multifaceted. She remarked, "I accept men's polygamy, just not at my home." Her humorous take on relationships and family dynamics showed Viner's pragmatic approach to love and marriage, imbued with wisdom gained through life experiences.
Despite her personal challenges, Viner remains focused on the future of Russian gymnastics, particularly following their exclusion from international competitions since 2022. She's optimistic about the potential resurgence of Russian athletes on the world stage, especially with the upcoming 2028 Olympics. Viner stated, "I think yes, Americans understand business, they need competition." This highlights her acknowledgment of the business aspects of sports and her determination to keep Russian gymnasts competitive.
Viner also addressed the alterations happening within Russian gymnastics, indicating the formation of club systems as sanctioned by government measures to adapt to their current situation. She shared, "Our president allowed the creation of club leagues, and we are using this." Her outlook suggests not only resilience but also adaptation amid adversity.
Viner’s recent insights extend to the medical field as well, responding to controversies involving gymnast Lala Kramarenko and medical errors during her surgery. Viner expressed concern over mishaps, asserting, "I would strip such doctors of their diplomas," underlining her advocacy for the well-being of her athletes and the accountability of medical professionals.
Throughout the interview, Viner displayed herself as both nurturing and tough—truly embodying the spirit of Russian gymnastics. Her ability to navigate her controversies, personal relationships, and the uncertain future of the sport reflects her staunch dedication to the discipline she has devoted her life to.
The complexity of Viner’s dialogue offers valuable lessons about coaching, support, and the intense pressure athletes face, positioning her as not just a coach but a figurehead of resilience and strategic thinking within the gymnastics community. Only time will tell how these factors will shape the next generation of gymnasts as Viner continues her work, striving for excellence against all odds.