NOC president honors gymnast Anastasiia Salos as she retires

NOC President Viktor Lukashenko addressed participants, organizers, and spectators at the International Rhythmic Gymnastics Tournament for the Prizes of Marina Lobatch. He described rhythmic gymnastics as one of the most spectacular sports, a fusion of sport and art that never leaves anyone indifferent, adding that the Marina Lobatch tournament has long been a jewel in the crown of world rhythmic gymnastics.



“Some of the most powerful athletes perform here, many of whom used this tournament as a springboard to elite sport. I am confident that we will see more of these little stars here, ones who will shine brightly in the future. I thank everyone who took part in organizing the event, our spectators, fans, the gymnasts’ parents, and, of course, our athletes, without whom this amazing celebration would not have been possible.

Viktor Lukashenko reserved especially warm words for Belarusian rhythmic gymnast Anastasiia Salos – a multiple World and European Championship medalist and Olympic participant – who is concluding her athletic career.

“Unfortunately, in sports, there comes a time when you must move on. Today is such a day for our beloved gymnast Anastasiia Salos – a fragile, gentle, charming, and talented athlete with a strong inner core. It’s hard to accept that you are leaving after all your achievements and wonderful performances, which captivated with their harmony, amazed with their perfection, and always stood out for their high complexity. Many of them are unique – you are the only one in the world to perform them.”



He expressed confidence that everything Anastasiia Salos has learned throughout her career will help her not just endure, but always excel in everything she does.

“You’ve already become a wonderful example for many young athletes in Belarus and around the world. I’m confident you’ll continue to inspire them by sharing your exceptional experience. I wish you, in this new stage of your life, to stay close to your friend – the mat, as you call it. Good luck, good health, and remember that we’re always here to lend a helping hand if needed. May new exciting prospects and promising horizons open up before you.”

He then presented Anastasiia Salos with a commendation letter and a valuable gift from the NOC of Belarus.



In response, Anastasiia Salos expressed her gratitude and shared her plans for the future:



“I want to thank the audience for their support and all the applause after the most difficult elements; you have been part of my big and wonderful journey. I want to thank my teammates, with whom we cried in the locker room and laughed until we cried at training camps. I express my appreciation to the coaches and choreographers who believed in me more than I believed in myself. You molded a small, scared girl into an athlete and a strong personality. I also want to thank the medical staff who brought me back to life after the most terrible injuries. Without you, not a single victory would have been possible. I thank Belarus for believing in me; for the honor I felt stepping onto the mat under our flag. It was an incredible honor to perform our national anthem, standing on the podium and representing our country on the world stage. I hope I’ve lived up to the trust placed in me and left my mark on the history of rhythmic gymnastics. Life is just beginning. I’m on the threshold of a new stage and am ready to pass on my experience and love for this sport as a coach.

Press service of the NOC of Belarus
Photos of the NOC of Belarus