Anna Popova announced her retirement from sports at the age of 19 after spinal surgery

Brief retelling from RIA II

Anna Popova, Russian champion in rhythmic gymnastics, announced her retirement from her sports career at the age of 19.

At the end of 2024, Popova underwent spinal surgery, during which four titanium vertebrae were installed.

Popova plans to continue performing at concerts and sports shows, as well as participate in projects, conduct master classes and share experiences.

MOSCOW, October 4 - RIA Novosti. Russian rhythmic gymnastics champion Anna Popova announced her retirement from her sports career at the age of 19.

At the end of 2024, Popova underwent spinal surgery. In May 2025, former head coach of the Russian national team Irina Viner announced that the gymnast had four titanium vertebrae installed.

"Today I am officially ending my career as a gymnast... It’s still unusual to say these words. Rhythmic gymnastics for me has never been just a sport. This is my childhood, my youth, my life and a huge part of me. I have years of training, training camps, competitions, flights, tears, injuries, victories and defeats behind me. Thanks to everyone who was next to me along this path, and to you, the audience, for your support throughout all these years. I am closing one big chapter of my life with a huge with gratitude,” Popova wrote on Instagram*.

The athlete noted that she will perform at concerts and sports shows, as well as participate in projects, conduct master classes and share experiences.

Popova is the absolute champion of Russia in rhythmic gymnastics in 2023 and the winner of the BRICS Games in certain events.