Famous Russian Sportspersons

Khabib Nurmagomedov is a retired Russian professional mixed martial artist who competed in the UFC Lightweight division with a record of 29 wins and no losses. He held the UFC Lightweight Champion title from April 2018 to March 2021, making him the longest-reigning champion in that division. Nurmagomedov is widely regarded as one of the greatest MMA fighters of all time and was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame in 2022. He is also a two-time world champion in combat sambo and a successful MMA trainer and promoter.

Maria Sharapova is a Russian former world No. 1 tennis player who competed on the WTA Tour from 2001 to 2020. She achieved the career Grand Slam and won multiple major titles, including two French Open championships. Sharapova faced a suspension due to a failed drug test in 2016 but returned to the WTA Tour in 2017. Beyond tennis, she has been involved in modeling, endorsements, and philanthropic efforts, such as serving as a United Nations Development Programme Goodwill Ambassador. She was a prominent figure in women's tennis and a top-earning female athlete.

Kamila Valieva is a highly accomplished Russian figure skater known for her exceptional talent and numerous world records. She has secured various championship titles, including the Rostelecom Cup and Skate Canada, as well as the Junior World and Junior Grand Prix Final championships. Despite her impressive achievements, Valieva faced a setback due to a doping scandal during the 2022 Winter Olympics, resulting in a four-year ban and the disqualification of her competitive results. She is recognized for her groundbreaking performances, including being the first female skater to achieve multiple scoring thresholds and execute challenging jumps like the quadruple toe loop and triple Axel.

Garry Kasparov is a prominent Russian chess grandmaster, former World Chess Champion, political activist, and writer. He achieved a peak FIDE chess rating of 2851 in 1999, holding the highest record until Magnus Carlsen surpassed it in 2013. Kasparov dominated the chess world for a significant period, ranking world no. 1 for a record 255 months. Known for his strategic prowess, Kasparov became the youngest-ever undisputed world champion in 1985 and has a legacy of tournament victories, coaching, and political activism.

Anna Shcherbakova is a highly accomplished Russian figure skater known for her groundbreaking achievements in the sport. She is the reigning Olympic champion and has also won World, European, and Russian national titles. Shcherbakova made history by being the first woman to successfully land challenging quad jumps in competition, such as the quad Lutz and quad flip. She has a long list of accolades at both the senior and junior levels, showcasing her exceptional talent and dedication to figure skating.

Sergei Mikhailovich Grinkov was a highly accomplished Russian pair skater known for his partnership with Ekaterina Gordeeva. Together, they were Olympic Champions in 1988 and 1994 and secured four World Championship titles between 1986 and 1990. Grinkov's professional career was marked by exceptional technical skill, artistry, and a strong bond with Gordeeva on the ice. His contributions to pairs figure skating left a lasting impact on the sport, inspiring future generations of skaters.

Alena Kostornaia is a highly accomplished Russian figure skater known for her exceptional talent and numerous achievements in both junior and senior competitions. She has claimed titles such as the European champion, Grand Prix Final champion, and Junior Grand Prix Final champion. Kostornaia has set world records for her impressive performances, including holding the highest scores for both senior and junior short programs in women's skating. Notably, she is among a select group of female skaters who have successfully executed challenging jumps, showcasing her technical prowess on the ice.

Lev Ivanovich Yashin was a Soviet professional footballer known as the greatest goalkeeper in history. He revolutionized the position by commanding the defense, intercepting crosses, and engaging with attackers. Yashin's performances at the 1958 World Cup captivated a global audience, earning him nicknames like the "Black Spider." He appeared in four World Cups, saving over 150 penalty kicks and achieving numerous accolades, including the Ballon d'Or in 1963. Yashin's exceptional career culminated in being named the best goalkeeper of the 20th century by various organizations.

Boris Vasilievich Spassky, a Russian chess grandmaster and former World Chess Champion, had a successful professional career marked by multiple Soviet Chess Championship victories and numerous appearances as a World Chess Championship candidate. Spassky played in several high-profile matches, including his famous win against Tigran Petrosian in 1969 to become world champion and his subsequent loss to Bobby Fischer in 1972. Despite immigrating to France in 1976 and later becoming a French citizen, Spassky continued to compete in tournaments, although he was no longer a top contender for the world title.

Alexander Alekhine was a prominent Russian and French chess player who held the title of World Chess Champion twice. Known for his aggressive playing style and strategic prowess, he achieved early success in the 1920s by winning numerous tournaments. Alekhine represented France in international competitions and excelled in Chess Olympiads. Despite facing challenges from emerging talents, he defended his title against notable opponents like Capablanca and Euwe. Alekhine's contributions to chess theory, including innovative opening variations and endgame studies, solidify his legacy as a renowned figure in the chess world.

Yulia Lipnitskaya is a retired Russian figure skater known for her accomplishments in competitive figure skating. She won numerous titles, including the World silver medal, European championship, and Grand Prix Final silver medal. As a junior skater, she also achieved success, winning the World Junior Championships and Russian Junior Championships. Lipnitskaya made history as the youngest Russian athlete to win a gold medal at the Winter Olympics and the youngest gold medalist in the women's singles category at the European Championships. She retired in 2017 due to injuries and anorexia nervosa.

Nataliya Kuznetsova is a renowned Russian professional female bodybuilder and powerlifter. With impressive strength and dedication, she has made a significant impact in the fitness industry. Kuznetsova's professional career is marked by numerous achievements in bodybuilding and powerlifting competitions. Known for her exceptional physique and strength, she has garnered a large following of fans and supporters worldwide. Through her hard work and commitment to her craft, Kuznetsova continues to inspire and motivate aspiring athletes in the fitness community.

Alexandra "Sasha" Vyacheslavovna Trusova is a highly accomplished Russian figure skater known for her revolutionary technical prowess in ladies' figure skating. She has achieved numerous milestones in her career, including being the first woman to successfully land multiple quadruple jumps in competition and setting multiple Guinness World Records. Trusova has been a dominant force in both junior and senior competitions, earning titles such as Olympic silver medalist, World bronze medalist, and European silver and bronze medalist, showcasing her exceptional talent and skill on the ice.

Evgeni Malkin is a Russian professional ice hockey center and alternate captain for the Pittsburgh Penguins of the NHL. Malkin began his career with Metallurg Magnitogorsk before being selected second overall in the 2004 NHL Entry Draft. He won the Calder Memorial Trophy in his first NHL season and has since achieved numerous accolades, including multiple Art Ross Trophies and Stanley Cup championships. Malkin has also excelled internationally, representing Russia in various IIHF tournaments and Winter Olympic Games.

Alexander Ovechkin is a Russian professional ice hockey left winger and captain of the Washington Capitals in the NHL. Known as "Ovi" and "the Great Eight," he is celebrated as one of the greatest goal scorers in history, ranking second only to Wayne Gretzky. Ovechkin holds numerous NHL records, including most power play goals and most goals with a single team. He has received prestigious awards such as the Maurice "Rocket" Richard Trophy and the Hart Memorial Trophy multiple times, solidifying his status as a hockey legend.

Tigran Petrosian was a prominent Soviet-Armenian chess grandmaster known for his defensive playing style, earning him the nickname "Iron Tigran." He served as the World Chess Champion from 1963 to 1969, winning the title twice and defending it successfully once. Petrosian was a candidate for the World Chess Championship eight times and won the Soviet Championship four times. He is credited with popularizing chess in Armenia and was a dominant figure in the chess world during his career, known for his strategic prowess and safety-focused gameplay.

Alina Kabaeva is a prominent figure in Russian politics and media management. She had a successful career as a rhythmic gymnast, earning numerous Olympic, World Championship, and European Championship medals. Transitioning into politics, Kabaeva served as a State Duma deputy for United Russia and later became the chairwoman of the board of directors of the National Media Group. Her professional trajectory showcases a blend of athleticism, leadership, and influence in both sports and media sectors.

Ekaterina Makarova is a retired Russian professional tennis player, known for her success in both singles and doubles competitions. She achieved the world No. 1 ranking in doubles and reached world No. 8 in singles. Makarova won four Grand Slam titles in women's doubles and one in mixed doubles. She also claimed 15 WTA Tour titles, including the prestigious WTA Finals. Makarova's career highlights include winning Olympic gold, reaching Grand Slam semifinals in singles, and contributing to Russia's Fed Cup victory.

Ian Nepomniachtchi is a highly accomplished Russian chess grandmaster with numerous titles and achievements to his name. Known for his prowess in rapid and blitz chess, he has won prestigious events such as the Russian Superfinal, European Individual titles, Tal Memorial, Aeroflot Open, and various team championships. Nepomniachtchi has also excelled in the FIDE Candidates tournament, qualifying him as a challenger in the World Chess Championship on multiple occasions. Despite facing challenges, he continues to be a formidable force in the world of professional chess.

Andrei Gennadyevich Kirilenko is a Russian basketball executive and former professional basketball player. He began his professional career in the Russian Basketball Super League before being drafted by the Utah Jazz in 1999. Kirilenko played for the Jazz for nine seasons, earning accolades such as NBA All-Rookie First Team, NBA All-Defensive Team selection, and leading the league in blocked shots. He also had successful stints with CSKA Moscow and the Minnesota Timberwolves before retiring as a member of the Brooklyn Nets. Kirilenko has represented Russia in international competitions, winning the EuroBasket title in 2007 and earning multiple MVP honors. He has also received various Player of the Year awards and currently serves as the president of the Russian Basketball Federation.

Vladimir Borisovich Kramnik is a renowned Russian chess grandmaster known for his impressive career achievements. He held the Classical World Chess Champion title from 2000 to 2006 and the undisputed World Chess Champion title from 2006 to 2007. Kramnik defeated top players like Garry Kasparov, Peter Leko, and Veselin Topalov during his career. Despite losing his title to Viswanathan Anand in 2007, he remained a highly rated player and a formidable opponent. Kramnik retired in 2019 to focus on chess-related projects for children and education.

Vadim Nemkov is a highly accomplished Russian professional mixed martial artist, known for his exceptional skills in Combat Sambo. He competes in the Heavyweight division of Bellator and has previously held the title of Bellator Light Heavyweight Champion. Mentored by the legendary MMA and Sambo expert Fedor Emelianenko, Nemkov has earned a reputation as a formidable force in the sport. Ranked #1 in the 205 division by Sherdog, he continues to impress with his talent and dedication to his craft.

Elena Vesnina is a highly accomplished Russian professional tennis player with a successful career in both singles and doubles. She has achieved significant success in doubles, winning four Grand Slam titles and reaching multiple major finals. Vesnina has also excelled in singles, reaching a career-high ranking and winning three WTA singles titles. She has represented Russia in various prestigious tournaments like the Billie Jean King Cup and the Olympic Games, earning medals in both doubles and mixed doubles events.

Daria Kasatkina is a Russian professional tennis player who made her top-ten debut in the WTA rankings in 2018. She has achieved a career-high ranking of world No. 8 and has won seven singles titles and one doubles title on the WTA Tour. Kasatkina excelled as a junior player, winning the European 16s championship and a junior Grand Slam singles title. Known for her crafty style of play and diverse shotmaking, she relies on speed and quick thinking to outsmart her opponents on the court.

Anatoly Yevgenyevich Karpov is a renowned Russian chess grandmaster and former World Chess Champion. He achieved numerous accolades in chess, including winning the World Chess Championship and FIDE World Championship multiple times. With over 160 first-place finishes in chess tournaments, Karpov displayed exceptional skill and dominance in the chess world. Additionally, he has been actively involved in Russian politics, serving as an elected Member of the State Duma and holding key positions related to environmental protection and defense.

Sergei Viktorovich Fedorov is a Russian former professional ice hockey player known for his 13 seasons with the Detroit Red Wings. He also played for the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim, Columbus Blue Jackets, and Washington Capitals. Fedorov was one of the first hockey players to defect from the Soviet Union to play in the NHL. He won the Stanley Cup three times with Detroit and was awarded the Hart Memorial Trophy as the NHL's most valuable player in 1994. Fedorov played over 1,200 NHL games, scoring 483 goals, and is considered one of the best playoff performers in NHL history. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2015 and the International Ice Hockey Federation Hall of Fame in 2016. Fedorov was named one of the "100 Greatest NHL Players" in history.

Antonina Krivoshapka is a professional linguist specializing in the study and promotion of the Russian language. She has extensive experience in teaching Russian as a foreign language and has worked as a language consultant for various international organizations. Antonina is known for her expertise in the Cyrillic script and phonology of Russian, particularly in distinguishing between soft and hard consonant sounds. She has also contributed to the development of educational materials and resources for learning Russian, both online and offline.

Anna Kournikova is a former professional tennis player who gained worldwide fame for her celebrity status and model appearance. Despite never winning a singles title, she reached No. 8 in the world rankings in 2000. Kournikova found more success in doubles, becoming the world No. 1 player at times and winning Grand Slam titles with partner Martina Hingis. She retired from tennis in 2003 due to back and spinal issues, and later pursued ventures in television and philanthropy, serving as a Global Ambassador for health programs.

Sergei Kharitonov is a versatile Russian combat sports athlete with a career spanning various disciplines. He has competed in top organizations such as PRIDE Fighting Championships, DREAM, Bellator MMA, M-1 Global, Strikeforce, and GLORY. Kharitonov has achieved significant victories over notable opponents including former champions like Murilo Rua, Semmy Schilt, Alistair Overeem, Andrei Arlovski, and Fabricio Werdum. With a wealth of experience in both MMA and kickboxing, Kharitonov's professional journey showcases his skill, resilience, and ability to compete at the highest levels of combat sports.

Pavel Pogrebnyak is a retired Russian professional footballer known for his time as a striker. Starting his career at Spartak Moscow, he had loan spells at various clubs before joining Tom Tomsk. He later moved to Zenit St. Petersburg, where he enjoyed success by winning several titles. Pogrebnyak then played for VfB Stuttgart in Germany before joining English clubs Fulham and Reading. Nicknamed The Pog, he is recognized for his strength and ability to hold up the ball effectively on the field.

Ilia Kulik is a highly accomplished Russian figure skater, having won numerous prestigious titles throughout his career. He is best known for winning the Olympic gold medal in 1998, as well as being the European Champion in 1995 and the Grand Prix Final champion in 1997-1998. Additionally, he achieved success as the World Junior champion in 1995. Kulik's professional life is characterized by his incredible talent, dedication to the sport, and his ability to consistently perform at a high level in competitive figure skating.

Darya Igorevna Klishina is a Russian long jumper known for her exceptional skills and achievements in the sport. She has represented Russia in various prestigious international competitions, showcasing her talent and determination on the track. Klishina has demonstrated consistency and resilience throughout her professional career, earning accolades and recognition for her impressive performances. As a dedicated athlete, she continues to train rigorously and compete at a high level, inspiring fans and aspiring athletes around the world with her passion for long jump.

Viktoria Komova is a highly accomplished former Russian artistic gymnast with a successful career at both the junior and senior levels. She is a two-time Olympic silver medalist and has also achieved notable victories at the World Championships. Komova is particularly recognized for her exceptional skills on the uneven bars and has been praised for her elegant and precise gymnastics style reminiscent of the classic Soviet era. Throughout her professional career, she has consistently demonstrated remarkable talent and dedication to her sport.

Ekaterina "Katia" Alexandrovna Gordeeva is a highly accomplished Russian figure skater known for her successful career in pair skating with her late husband Sergei Grinkov. Together, they achieved numerous accolades including Olympic gold medals, World Championships, and European Championships. Gordeeva also made a successful transition to solo skating after Grinkov's tragic passing, showcasing her versatility and resilience as a figure skater. Her professional journey is marked by excellence, dedication, and a lasting impact on the world of figure skating.

Žydrūnas Ilgauskas is a Lithuanian-born American former professional basketball player who played as a center in the NBA. He had a successful career playing for the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Miami Heat, earning accolades such as being named to the All-Rookie First Team and being a two-time NBA All-Star. Known for his accurate jump shot and rebounding skills, he overcame significant injury challenges. After retiring, he transitioned to a role in the Cavaliers' front office as a special advisor to the organization.

Margarita Mamun is a retired Russian rhythmic gymnast of Bangladeshi-Russian descent. She achieved significant success in her career, including winning the 2016 Olympic All-around gold medal and multiple silver medals at World Championships and European Games. Mamun also holds the record for the highest All-around total under the 20-point judging system. Throughout her career, she demonstrated excellence by winning various championships and titles, establishing herself as one of the top rhythmic gymnasts in the world.

Angelina Melnikova is a highly accomplished Russian artistic gymnast with numerous Olympic, World, and European medals to her name. She has excelled both as part of team events and individually, showcasing her skills in various disciplines such as all-around, floor, and vault. Melnikova's achievements include leading her team to victory at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, winning multiple gold and silver medals at prestigious competitions, and making history as the first non-American to clinch a World or Olympic all-around title in over a decade. She has demonstrated exceptional leadership as the captain of the Russian women's national gymnastics team since 2017.

Andrey Sergeyevich Arshavin is a former professional footballer who played as a winger or midfielder. He began his career at Zenit Saint Petersburg and won multiple trophies with the club. Arshavin was named Russian Footballer of the Year during his time at Zenit. He gained recognition for his performance at UEFA Euro 2008 and finished 6th in the 2008 Ballon d’Or. Arshavin later signed for Arsenal in the English Premier League before rejoining Zenit permanently in 2013. Currently, he holds administrative posts at Zenit, including Deputy General Director for Sports Development and a member of the executive board.

Rustam Khabilov is a Russian mixed martial artist known for his skills in the Combat Sambo discipline. He has competed in both the Lightweight division of the UFC and the Welterweight division. Khabilov has an impressive background as a Combat Sambo World Champion and has trained with the Legion Sport Club fight team in Rostov-on-Don. Transitioning to Bellator, Khabilov continues to showcase his talents and determination in the world of professional MMA, earning respect and recognition for his achievements in the sport.

Kirill Kaprizov is a prominent Russian professional ice hockey left winger and alternate captain for the Minnesota Wild in the NHL. Prior to joining the Wild, he showcased his skills in the KHL with Metallurg Novokuznetsk, Salavat Yulaev Ufa, and CSKA Moscow. Kaprizov's outstanding performance earned him the prestigious Calder Memorial Trophy as the NHL rookie of the year in 2021, making him the first Wild player to achieve this honor. Fans affectionately refer to him as "Dollar Bill Kirill" and "Kirill the Thrill."

Maria Sotskova, a retired Russian figure skater, achieved notable success in her career. She earned several medals in prestigious competitions, including the Grand Prix Final silver, Internationaux de France silver (twice), NHK Trophy bronze, and CS Finlandia Trophy gold. Sotskova also performed well at the World Figure Skating Championships and the Winter Olympics, consistently placing within the top 10. Her earlier accomplishments include silver at the Winter Youth Olympics, silver at the World Junior Championships, and gold at the Junior Grand Prix Final.

Vasily Ivanovich Alekseyev was a legendary Soviet weightlifter known for his exceptional achievements in the sport. He set an impressive total of 80 world records and 81 Soviet records in weightlifting throughout his career. Alekseyev was a dominant force in the sport, showcasing his unparalleled strength and skill by winning Olympic gold medals at both the 1972 and 1976 games. His remarkable talent and dedication to weightlifting solidified his reputation as one of the greatest weightlifters in history.

Alexander Grischuk is a prominent Russian chess grandmaster with notable achievements in the chess world. As a three-time world blitz chess champion and the Russian champion in 2009, he has showcased exceptional skills in various tournaments and championships. Grischuk's participation in Candidates Tournaments and FIDE World Championship demonstrates his competitive spirit and strategic prowess. His success in team events such as Chess Olympiads and World Team Chess Championship further solidifies his reputation as a skilled and accomplished chess player on the international stage.

Maria Kirilenko is a retired Russian professional tennis player known for her success in both singles and doubles. She achieved a career-high ranking of world No. 10 in singles and reached the quarterfinals of three major tournaments. In doubles, she reached the No. 5 ranking and won multiple titles, including the WTA Tour Championships in 2012. Kirilenko also won medals at the 2012 London Olympics in both singles and doubles events, showcasing her versatility and skill on the court.

Victoria Sinitsina is a highly accomplished Russian ice dancer known for her successful partnerships with Nikita Katsalapov and Ruslan Zhiganshin. With Katsalapov, she has achieved numerous prestigious titles, including Olympic medals, World and European championships, Grand Prix Final success, and national championship victories. Her partnership with Zhiganshin also yielded significant achievements, such as a World Junior championship and medals at various international competitions. Sinitsina's professional career is marked by consistent success and a strong presence on the competitive ice dancing circuit.

Anastasia Potapova is a successful Russian professional tennis player with impressive rankings in both singles and doubles. She reached a career-high singles ranking of No. 21 by the WTA and a doubles ranking of world No. 40. With a background as a former junior world No. 1 and the 2016 Wimbledon girls' singles champion, Potapova has established herself as a talented player in the tennis world. Her achievements reflect her dedication and skill on the court, making her a formidable presence in the sport.

Alexander Radulov is a highly accomplished Russian professional ice hockey player. He has played for various teams in both the NHL and the KHL, including Lokomotiv Yaroslavl, Nashville Predators, Montreal Canadiens, Dallas Stars, Salavat Yulaev Ufa, and CSKA Moscow. Radulov has won multiple championships and awards throughout his career, including being a two-time World Champion with Russia, a Gagarin Cup champion, and a Memorial Cup champion. He is also a four-time Golden Stick Award winner and ranks second in all-time KHL scoring.

Dina Averina is a highly accomplished former Russian rhythmic gymnast, known for her exceptional skills and achievements in the sport. She has an impressive track record, including being a four-time World All-around Champion and a silver medalist at the Olympic Games. A dominant force in the gymnastics world, she has also excelled at various international competitions, showcasing her talent and dedication to the sport. Alongside her twin sister, Arina Averina, Dina has left a lasting legacy in rhythmic gymnastics with her outstanding performances and numerous championship titles.

Semyon Varlamov is a Russian professional ice hockey goaltender currently playing for the New York Islanders in the NHL. He began his professional career with Lokomotiv Yaroslavl in the Russian Superleague before being drafted by the Washington Capitals in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft. Varlamov then played eight seasons with the Colorado Avalanche before joining the Islanders in 2019. Known for his strong goaltending skills, Varlamov has established himself as a reliable presence in the NHL over the years.

Vasily Vasilyevich Smyslov was a prominent Soviet and Russian chess grandmaster, known for his impressive achievements in the world of chess. He was the seventh World Chess Champion from 1957 to 1958 and a Candidate for the World Chess Championship on multiple occasions. Smyslov excelled in various chess competitions, winning numerous medals and accolades, including an all-time record of 17 Chess Olympiad medals. Despite challenges like failing eyesight, he continued to actively participate in chess events and compose chess problems until his passing in 2010. Additionally, he showcased his talent as a skilled baritone singer.

Alexandra Kosteniuk is a renowned chess grandmaster who has achieved significant success in the world of chess. She has held prestigious titles such as the Women's World Chess Champion and Women's World Rapid Chess Champion. Throughout her career, she has secured numerous victories in various international chess competitions, showcasing her exceptional skills and strategic prowess on the board. A key highlight of her professional life includes representing Russia in various championships before switching federations to Switzerland in 2022.

Arina Averina is a former individual rhythmic gymnast from Russia with an impressive professional career. She achieved great success in international competitions, including being a finalist in the 2020 Summer Olympics, a two-time world all-around silver medalist, and a two-time European all-around champion. She also won the bronze medal at the Grand Prix Final in 2016. A standout performer in her country, she became a three-time Russian national all-around champion and a three-time Russian national all-around medalist.

Elena Ilinykh is a former competitive ice dancer from Russia known for her successful partnerships with Ruslan Zhiganshin and Nikita Katsalapov. She has achieved numerous accolades in her career, including being a Russian national champion, Olympic champion in the team event, Olympic bronze medalist in ice dancing, European silver and bronze medalist, and World Junior champion. Alongside Katsalapov, Ilinykh holds the title of the second-youngest Olympic Ice Dance medalist in history and the junior world record holder for the Original Dance.

Rinat Dasayev is a former Russian goalkeeper known for his successful club career with Volgar Astrakhan, Spartak Moscow, and Sevilla. He achieved international recognition playing for the Soviet national team at three World Cups, winning a bronze at the 1980 Olympics and finishing as a runner-up at UEFA Euro 1988. Regarded as one of the best goalkeepers of the 1980s, he earned numerous accolades including the World's Best Goalkeeper award in 1988. Post-retirement, Dasayev transitioned to coaching and currently serves as a goalkeeping consultant for FC Spartak-2 Moscow and Spartak's youth teams.

Sergei Ignashevich is a retired Russian professional footballer turned coach who excelled as a central defender. He began his career at Torpedo Moscow before playing for Lokomotiv Moscow and CSKA Moscow, winning multiple Russian Premier League titles and the 2005 UEFA Cup. Ignashevich represented Russia in two European Championships and two FIFA World Cups, achieving notable milestones such as becoming the most capped player in Russia's team history and setting a record for most games played in the Russian Premier League.

Anna Kalinskaya is a successful Russian professional tennis player known for her skills in both singles and doubles. With a career-high singles ranking of No. 17, she has secured numerous titles on the WTA Tour and ITF Circuit. Her achievements include winning three doubles titles on the WTA Tour, one singles title on the WTA Challenger Tour, and multiple singles and doubles titles on the ITF Circuit. Notably, she reached the quarterfinals at the 2024 Australian Open and has had significant victories against top players in major tournaments.

Yuri Valentinovich Zhirkov is a retired Russian footballer known for his versatility as a left-back and left-winger. He began his career at Spartak Tambov before moving to CSKA Moscow, where he achieved domestic and European success. Zhirkov later played for Chelsea in the English Premier League before returning to Russia with Anzhi Makhachkala and Dynamo Moscow. He joined Zenit in 2016. With over 100 international caps, Zhirkov excelled at UEFA Euro 2008, earning Team of the Tournament honors and multiple awards. He also represented Russia in several major tournaments.

Viktor Korchnoi was a highly accomplished Soviet and Swiss chess grandmaster and writer, known for his exceptional skill and competitive spirit. He is renowned for being one of the strongest players to never have become World Chess Champion, having contested multiple matches against Anatoly Karpov. Korchnoi's career was marked by numerous appearances in World Championship cycles and consistent success in national and international competitions, including victories in the USSR Chess Championship and the World Senior Chess Championship at the age of 75.

Dinara Mubinovna Safina is a retired Russian tennis player who reached the world No. 1 ranking during her career. She was a runner-up in multiple Grand Slam singles events and achieved success in doubles as well, winning the 2007 US Open. Safina also won a silver medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. She officially retired in 2014 due to a long-term back injury. Safina's professional accomplishments include being the younger sister of former world No. 1 player Marat Safin, making them the first sibling pair to both achieve the top singles rankings.

Sergei Vladilenovich Ponomarenko is a highly accomplished Russian former competitive ice dancer. He achieved great success during his career, competing for the Soviet Union and the Unified Team. Ponomarenko, alongside his skating partner and wife Marina Klimova, is renowned for his achievements as a three-time World champion, four-time European champion, and 1992 Olympic gold medalist. His skill, dedication, and artistry on the ice have solidified his legacy as one of the most successful and influential figures in the history of ice dancing.

Vladislav Aleksandrovich Tretiak is a Russian former goaltender for the Soviet Union national ice hockey team. He is considered one of the greatest goaltenders in the history of the sport and was inducted into the IIHF Hall of Fame in 1997. Tretiak has been recognized for his exceptional skills by being voted onto the IIHF Centennial All-Star Team. He currently serves as the president of the Ice Hockey Federation of Russia and has held important roles such as the general manager of the Russian 2010 Winter Olympic team.

Lyudmila Rudenko was a Soviet chess player known for her remarkable achievements in the world of chess. She made history by becoming the second women's world chess champion from 1950 to 1953. Rudenko was a trailblazer in the chess world, being the first woman to be awarded the title of International Master and achieving great success in various championships. Her talent and dedication to the game earned her the respect and admiration of her peers, solidifying her legacy as a prominent figure in the world of chess.

Valentin Moldavsky is a prominent Russian mixed martial artist and combat sambo practitioner. He has achieved significant success in his career, currently competing in Bellator MMA as a former interim Bellator Heavyweight Champion. Moldavsky has also excelled in the sambo arena, boasting two world championships and one European championship in the +100 kg division. His skill and dedication have solidified his reputation as a top athlete in the world of combat sports, with a promising future ahead.

Vladimir Yevgenyevich Krutov, known as "The Tank," was a highly skilled Russian ice hockey forward. He excelled as part of the legendary KLM Line alongside Igor Larionov and Sergei Makarov. Krutov achieved great success representing the Soviet Union national team, winning multiple Olympic gold and silver medals, as well as numerous World Championships. He played for CSKA Moscow before briefly joining the NHL with the Vancouver Canucks. After retiring, he transitioned to coaching and was posthumously inducted into the IIHF Hall of Fame.

Yelena Gadzhievna Isinbayeva is a retired Russian pole vaulter known for her exceptional achievements in the sport. She is a two-time Olympic gold medalist, a three-time World Champion, and holds the current world record in pole vault. Isinbayeva has won numerous major championships and accolades, including being named Female Athlete of the Year by the IAAF multiple times. She was also banned from the 2016 Rio Olympics due to doping allegations but later transitioned into a role on the IOC's Athletes' Commission.

Alexander Popov is a retired Russian swimmer renowned as one of the greatest sprint swimmers of all time. He achieved Olympic gold medals in the 50m and 100m freestyle events at both the 1992 and 1996 Olympics, a unique accomplishment in Olympic history. Popov held the world records in the 50m and 100m freestyle for several years. In 2003, at the age of 31, he secured gold medals in the 50m and 100m events at the World Championships, further solidifying his legacy in the sport.

Ludmilla Tourischeva is a former Russian gymnast and Ukrainian gymnastics coach. She is known for her achievements as an all-round Olympic champion and a nine-time Olympic medalist for the Soviet Union. Tourischeva has made significant contributions to the sport of gymnastics through her successful competitive career and later as a coach. Her expertise and experience have made her a respected figure in the gymnastics community, inspiring many with her achievements and dedication to the sport.

Sergei Bobrovsky is a Russian professional ice hockey goaltender for the Florida Panthers in the NHL. He has previously played for the Philadelphia Flyers and Columbus Blue Jackets, gaining recognition as one of the league's top goaltenders. Bobrovsky is a two-time Vezina Trophy winner, having received the award in the 2012-13 and 2016-17 seasons. In February 2023, he became the winningest Russian goaltender in NHL history, surpassing Evgeni Nabokov. Bobrovsky achieved the pinnacle of success by winning the Stanley Cup with the Panthers in 2024.

Vladislava Urazova is a highly accomplished Russian artistic gymnast known for her exceptional skills and achievements. She has represented the Russian Olympic Committee at top-tier competitions, including winning a gold medal in the team event at the 2020 Summer Olympics. With a remarkable track record, she has also secured titles such as the 2019 Junior World Champion and the 2021 European silver medalist on the uneven bars. Urazova's talent, dedication, and success in the gymnastics world have solidified her as a prominent figure in the sport.

Askar Askarov is a Russian professional mixed martial artist and freestyle wrestler. He competes in the Flyweight division of Absolute Championship Akhmat (ACA) and has been a professional mixed martial artist since 2013. Askarov has previously fought in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and Absolute Championship Berkut (ACB), where he held the ACB Flyweight Championship. He is also a gold medalist in freestyle wrestling from the 2017 Summer Deaflympics. Currently ranked #8 in the ACA flyweight rankings, Askarov has established himself as a skilled and accomplished competitor in the world of MMA and wrestling.

Magomed Ismailov is a Russian mixed martial artist known for competing in various professional MMA organizations since 2011. He has achieved success in disciplines such as combat sambo, army hand-to-hand combat, and freestyle wrestling, earning multiple titles and accolades. Ismailov debuted in MMA in 2011 and has fought in organizations like ACA, Fight Nights, M-1 Global, and more. He has showcased his skills in both national and international competitions, solidifying his reputation as a skilled and accomplished professional fighter.

Aleksandra Sergeyevna Soldatova is a retired Russian individual rhythmic gymnast known for her impressive achievements both on the senior and junior levels. She has secured various titles including the World All-around bronze medalist, World ribbon champion, Grand Prix Final All-around champion, and Russian National All-around champion. Soldatova was coached by Anna Shumilova-Dyachenko and announced her retirement from competitive gymnastics in December 2020. Throughout her career, she showcased exceptional talent and dedication to her sport, leaving a lasting impact in the world of rhythmic gymnastics.

Dmitri Aliev is a highly accomplished Russian figure skater with a successful professional career. He has secured numerous titles and accolades in both senior and junior competitions, including being the 2020 European champion, the 2020 Russian national champion, and the 2017 World Junior silver medalist. He has consistently showcased his talent and skill on the ice, earning recognition for his performances at various prestigious events such as the Junior Grand Prix Final and the Youth Olympics. Aliev continues to make a mark in the figure skating world with his impressive achievements and dedication to the sport.

Alexei Nemov is a retired Russian artistic gymnast known for his exceptional achievements in the sport. Throughout his career, he secured an impressive collection of accolades, including five world championships, three European championships, and a total of twelve Olympic medals. Nemov's success on the international stage solidified his reputation as one of the greatest gymnasts of his time. His dedication, skill, and competitive spirit made him a respected figure in the gymnastics community, inspiring future generations of athletes.

Stanislav Cherchesov is a Russian professional football manager and former player known for his role as a goalkeeper. He has experience managing national teams, having led the Russia national team to the quarter-finals of the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Cherchesov also coached Hungarian side Ferencváros, securing two consecutive Nemzeti Bajnokság I titles. His career has seen successes and challenges, showcasing his abilities in football management at both national and club levels.