Elena Vesnina Olympics 2024

Vesnina's early career saw her joining the Central Sports Army Club (CSKA) in Russia. Her most memorable sporting achievement came in 2016 when she won gold in women's doubles at the Rio de Janeiro Olympic Games. This victory earned her the Order of Friendship from the president of the Russian Federation.

Injuries and Setbacks

Throughout her career, Vesnina faced several injuries. After the 2014 US Open, she missed over a month due to a shoulder injury. In 2011, wrist and back injuries kept her out of tournaments in Beijing, Strasbourg, and Tokyo. Tendinitis in her right shoulder forced her to retire during a match in Cincinnati in 2007.

Additionally, she withdrew from events in Doha, Palermo, and Quebec City due to knee and shoulder injuries and a respiratory infection. After the 2013 World University Games in Kazan, she took a break to recover from a chronic elbow injury before competing at the US Open.

Retirement and Comeback

Vesnina retired from tennis after competing at the 2018 French Open and gave birth to her daughter Elizaveta later that year. However, she decided to return to the sport in early 2021. Encouragement from Shamil Tarpishchev, president of the Russian Tennis Federation, and her former coach Andrei Chesnokov played a crucial role in her comeback.

Mixed Doubles Success

In 2021, Vesnina partnered with Aslan Karatsev for mixed doubles. The duo reached the final at the French Open. Vesnina sees it as her role to boost Karatsev's self-belief on the court. She describes him as serious and quiet, while she tries to relax the atmosphere and encourage him to play his best game.

Personal Life

Vesnina resides in Moscow with her husband Pavel Tabuntsov and their daughter Elizaveta. She holds a degree in Sports Psychology from the Black Sea Humanitarian Academy in Sochi. Fluent in English and Russian, Vesnina enjoys hobbies such as reading, shopping, watching films, listening to music, dancing, travelling, and cooking.

Awards and Honours

In addition to the Order of Friendship, Vesnina has received the title of Honoured Master of Sport in the Russian Federation. Her idol is German tennis player Steffi Graf.

As Vesnina continues her career post-comeback, she remains an influential figure in tennis. Her journey reflects resilience and dedication to the sport she loves.