Veronika Zhilina, a remarkably talented figure skater from Russia.
Among all Olympic sports, figure skating stands out as one of the most elegant and expressive. While mastering the technical elements of a program is extremely challenging, figure skaters make it appear effortless as they glide across the ice. The best skaters do more than just perfect the jumps, spins, and tricks.
They also learn to fully express the emotions conveyed by the music they perform to. Veronika Zhilina is the epitome of this artistry. She is a Russian figure skater whose stunning performance to Alexandra Burke’s rendition of “Hallelujah” went viral, captivating audiences worldwide.
This performance is one of the most emotional and touching you will ever see, made all the more remarkable by the fact that she was only ten years old at the time.
Born on May 15, 2008, in Arkhangelsk, Russia, Veronika Vladislavovna Zhilina started skating at a very young age. Her mother Ludmilla introduced her to the ice when she was just three years old.
Veronika quickly showed a natural talent for skating, and although she was very young, she never felt lonely. Her younger sister Alena soon joined her and their mother on the ice. Committing to a career in figure skating demands rigorous training, but both girls embraced the challenge as skating became their shared passion.
The family stayed in Arkhangelsk until 2018 before moving to Moscow, where Veronika trained under renowned Russian figure skating coaches Sergei Dudakov, Sergei Rozanov, and Eteri Tutberidze. In 2019, Veronika competed in the junior category of the Russian Younger Age Championships and emerged as the champion. She then successfully defended her title the following year.
When her coach Sergei Rozanov later transitioned to the Academy Angels of Plushenko, Veronika and Alena followed, training alongside another prominent figure skater, Alexandra Trusova. Veronika’s success in Russian competitions indicates she may soon be ready to compete internationally.
Her performance to “Hallelujah” showcases her exceptional artistic expression. She enters the ice carrying a light, waving it gracefully above her head, while the audience responds by illuminating their own lights, creating a special connection between skater and spectators.
As Veronika places the light on the ice, she begins her flawless routine. Her smooth movements make it seem as if she is gliding effortlessly across the surface, blending seamlessly with the ice. Her white dress and blonde hair enhance her angelic appearance, while her skating technique is impeccable, with transitions as fluid as water.
The routine is perfectly choreographed, complementing the mood of the song beautifully. It’s a performance you simply cannot miss. And if you’re curious whether her younger sister is as talented, she too showcases impressive skills. These two sisters undoubtedly have bright futures in figure skating ahead of them.
