Russian Gymnasts to Compete Internationally After Two-Year Hiatus

Russian gymnasts are set to make their return to international competition at the Aeon Cup club world championship in Japan. The event, taking place in Tokyo from October 10 to 13, marks their first international appearance since 2022, and they will compete under a neutral status.

Russian gymnasts will participate in the International Federation`s Aeon Cup in Japan, marking their first international tournament since 2022. Competing in a neutral capacity, the team includes junior Ksenia Savinova and seniors Maria Borisova and Ulyana Yanus.

What is the significance of this championship? Sport24 correspondent Alena Volkova comments:

Alena Volkova

Sport24 Correspondent

“This is a club world championship, traditionally held in Japan, and it frequently attracts top gymnasts. It takes place after the main World Championship. Although it`s not a primary event on the calendar, the best gymnasts compete annually, representing their clubs. One could even call it a team world championship. Therefore, it`s certainly important for our athletes. They have previously traveled to other countries, but those were smaller tournaments without serious competition. Here, they can face elite performers. The best of the best are traditionally sent, so this will be a significant experience for them. Throughout this season, Maria Borisova has consistently led, winning every Russian competition she entered – she is now the undisputed top gymnast of the national team. Thus, it`s clear why she was chosen. Ulyana Yanus is a young gymnast, just completing her first senior season, but she already has a Russian Championship medal and consistently places in other tournaments, securing prizes in both all-around and individual apparatus finals. Ksenia Savinova is also a very bright junior. It will be interesting to see how she performs on the international stage, especially since she is also scheduled for the CIS Games in Baku just days before the team world championship. It will undoubtedly be intriguing to observe how she handles the pressure.”

The Aeon Cup Championship is traditionally held in Japan, with this year`s event taking place in Tokyo from October 10 to 13. The last time Russia was represented at these competitions was in 2021 by sisters Arina and Dina Averina.