Born in Kaliningrad, Russia, she began her journey in synchronised swimming at the age of five. Her mother introduced her to both swimming and gymnastics, but she chose synchronised swimming due to time constraints. Her dedication to the sport led her to an international debut in 2002 at the European Cup in Istanbul, Turkey, representing Russia.

| Season | Event | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | Women's Duet | G Gold |
| 2016 | Women's Team | G Gold |
| 2012 | Women's Duet | G Gold |
| 2012 | Women's Team | G Gold |
| 2008 | Women's Team | G Gold |
Her career is marked by numerous achievements. Winning her first Olympic gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics stands out as a memorable moment. She has been influenced significantly by her mother and coaches throughout her career.
She was named the International Swimming Federation (FINA) Synchronised Swimming Athlete of the Year in 2010, 2011, and 2012. In 2016, she shared the FINA Female Synchronised Swimming Athlete of the Year title with Svetlana Romashina. The European Swimming Federation (LEN) named her Synchronised Swimmer of the Year from 2009 to 2012.
For her achievements at the Olympics, she received several honours from the Russian Federation. These include the Order of Honour for her performance at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics, the Order for Merits to the Fatherland (fourth grade) for the 2012 London Olympics, and the Order of Friendship for winning gold at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. She also holds the title of Honoured Master of Sport in Russia.
Her sister Olga has also competed in synchronised swimming. Her husband Sergei Anikin won a silver medal in 3m synchronised diving at the 2004 European Championships in Madrid, Spain. Her hobbies include figure skating, ballet, cinema, books, internet surfing, and travelling.
In April 2017, she retired from synchronised swimming and was appointed interim vice-premier of the regional government in Kaliningrad. By August 2017, she became the minister of sport in Kaliningrad and is responsible for youth policy in the region.
She missed the 2013 World Championships in Barcelona due to pregnancy but returned to training by late 2014. Her resilience and dedication have been evident throughout her career.
As of July 2024, she continues to focus on her role as minister of sport in Kaliningrad. Her plans include further developing sports infrastructure and promoting youth engagement in sports activities within the region.
Her journey from a young swimmer to a decorated athlete and now a politician showcases her versatility and commitment to excellence.
Born in Kaliningrad, Russia, she began her journey in synchronised swimming at the age of five. Her mother introduced her to both swimming and gymnastics, but she chose synchronised swimming due to time constraints. Her dedication to the sport led her to an international debut in 2002 at the European Cup in Istanbul, Turkey, representing Russia.