Evgenia Kanaeva
The Russian rhythmic gymnastics champion is one of the greatest gymnasts of all times. Her elegance and grace have perfectly embodied the values of Longines since 2009.
Evgenia Kanaeva was introduced to gymnastics by her grandmother at a very young age and her mother coached her through the first years of competition. Apart from her athletic skills, one of her main strengths is the ability to control her emotions during competitions. She always remains focused and almost stoic even though she admits getting nervous inside. Evgenia has been inspired by a few former Russian gymnasts, including Natalia Lipkovskaya, who received the very first Longines Prize for Elegance.
Evgenia has won Gold Medals at European Championships, at World Championships, and at the Olympic Games of 2008. She wasn't selected to participate in Beijing, but the Russian coach decided to give her a chance nevertheless. She wouldn’t regret it, as Evgenia won Gold for rhythmic individual all-around, dominating the competition in an impressive manner. At the 2009 and 2011 World Championships, she surpassed herself by winning every single competition. Evgenia has contributed to writing the history of rhythmic gymnastics.
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