Liliya Podkopayeva on childhood in Donetsk and meeting with her Russian father

Olympic champion in rhythmic gymnastics Liliya Podkopayeva shared her memories of childhood in a Russian-speaking environment. In an interview, she recalled her surroundings in Donetsk, where everyone spoke Russian, as well as her meeting with her biological father, who is Russian.

Well, of course, I remember. And all my surroundings were Russian-speaking, so even in my head, there was no thought of learning Ukrainian. Dad is Russian... - she explained.

The athlete has no contact with her father, who left the family when Liliya was only two years old. The first meeting with him only happened in 2002 and was brief and awkward.

It was the first time since childhood. I didn’t know how to address him, how to do it right. I couldn’t say Dad, and I also couldn’t say Sasha, whether to you or to you. And it was very uncomfortable, so it felt like a crooked meeting, - Podkopayeva admitted.

Liliya Podkopayeva emphasized that for her, family is not only those who gave birth but also those who are always nearby, investing their time and soul necessary for the development of each individual.

Liliya Podkopayeva's childhood in a Russian-speaking environment influenced her perception of language and identity. The meeting with her father was difficult due to the lack of contact for many years, but the athlete developed a great understanding that family is not only blood ties but also support and mutual understanding from people who are always nearby.