Anastasia Fesikova Olympics

Zueva was born in Russia and resides in Obninsk. She pursued higher education in Physical Education at Penza State Pedagogical University. Fluent in Russian, she balances her professional and personal life with her husband, Sergey Fesikov, and their son Maxim, born in 2014.

Professional Career

Zueva made her international debut for Russia in 2006 at Palma de Mallorca, Spain. She has been coached by Natalia Kozlova since 2005. Zueva represents Kaluga Regional Olymp Sports School of Olympic Reserve and COP YANAO.

Challenges and Injuries

Throughout her career, Zueva faced several injuries. In 2020, she suffered ligament and tendon damage in her shoulder but chose to compete at the Russian national championships in 2021. She also broke her fifth metatarsal bone in early 2013, which forced her to miss the World Championships that year.

In 2009, she aggravated a back injury at the World Championships in Rome. This injury led her to withdraw from the 2010 European Championships. Despite advice from Russian doctors to quit, she found a German doctor who helped her return to competition by 2011.

Awards and Recognition

Zueva received several accolades for her contributions to swimming. She was awarded the Order for Merit to the Fatherland [first grade] after her performance at the 2012 Olympic Games. In 2009, she earned the title of Honoured Master of Sport in Russia.

Family Ties

Her husband, Sergey Fesikov, is also an accomplished swimmer. He won bronze in the men's 4x100m freestyle relay at the 2012 Olympic Games and competed at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Fesikov also secured gold medals at the 2019 European Short Course Championships.

Other Roles and Comeback

In November 2021, Zueva was elected to the Athletes' Commission of the Russian Olympic Committee (ROC). She expressed surprise at her election but is eager to tackle various issues within the commission. In January 2015, she made a comeback after regaining fitness post-childbirth. She had not competed since winning three gold medals at the 2013 World University Games.

Personal Life

Zueva enjoys spending time with her family when not competing or training. Her engagement to Sergey Fesikov was a memorable event; he proposed on the London Eye after they both competed at the 2012 Olympics.

Zueva's journey reflects dedication and resilience despite numerous challenges. Her achievements continue to inspire many within and beyond the swimming community.