Three-time European champion in swimming Anastasia Kirpichnikova first with a large left Russia with joy, and the day before she won her first gold medal under the flag of France. And apparently, she is very happy to play for a new country, and she said goodbye to Russia with just one phrase.
«I've been waiting for this for a very long time» The change of sports citizenship by Russian athletes is no longer a sensation. For more than a year, our compatriots have been migrating in search of a better life. Someone assures that this has nothing to do with the events in the world, someone honestly admits that they want to compete in international competitions and cannot wait any longer. There are already many examples, among the «escaped» there are also world champions — such as chess player Alexandra Kosteniuk, who will now represent Switzerland.
Moscow tennis player Varvara Gracheva received French citizenship and will become the second racket of the country. However, while such athletes are either in the process of changing their registration, or have not yet managed to win anything. Therefore, the case of the swimmer Kirpichnikova is a precedent. The day before, the former Russian won the French gold medal in the 400m freestyle and made an interesting announcement.
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“I am delighted, this first title is very important to me. Been waiting for this for a very long time. I hope to do even better in the 800 and 1500 meters. Now it is easier for me to train because I am motivated to take part in the World Cup for France. France is my second country, it is my home. I want to win a lot of medals for France,» France Presse quotes Kirpichnikova.
I said goodbye to Russia in a hurry, Kirpichnikova is in a sense a unique athlete. She competed at the Olympics in both pool and open water. By the age of 22, the Russian has won three European Championships and won a bronze medal at the 2021 World Short Course Championships in Abu Dhabi. Now she is winning under a false flag. Before changing citizenship, the athlete posted a post:
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“I am pleased to announce an important change, which is my naturalization in France. Thanks to this country that hosted me four and a half years ago. I am proud to represent France at the next World Cup.»
She said goodbye to Russia with just one phrase, which looked more like a favor than sincere gratitude.
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«Of course , many thanks to the All-Russian Swimming Federation for believing in me,” added the 22-year-old athlete.
It makes no sense to talk about betrayal in this situation, every athlete and person has the right to choose where to live and continue his career . Kirpichnikova, obviously, is more comfortable doing this in France, which she calls her home and promises to win many medals for her at the World Championships, and then, for sure, at the Olympic Games. Another thing is that you can leave in different ways, from the words of Anastasia there was not the most pleasant aftertaste. However, former Russian champions are already starting to win under foreign flags, and it is likely that this is not the last case.
The opinion of the author may not coincide with the position of the editors.