Nino Salukvadze: An Olympic Legacy Beyond Politics

Nino Salukvadze, a legendary shooter from the erstwhile USSR, voiced support for Russian athletes at the Paris Olympics amid the Ukraine conflict. The Olympic veteran, now a coach, emphasized the importance of separating sports from politics and reflected on her storied career and future coaching role.

Legendary shooter Nino Salukvadze, born in the former USSR, has voiced support for the inclusion of Russian athletes at the upcoming Paris Olympics despite strong opposition from Ukraine and its athletes.

Salukvadze, 55, the first woman to compete in 10 Olympics, announced her retirement following the 25m air pistol event last week. Winning her first Olympic gold in the 1988 edition as a USSR athlete, the Georgian champion has also been an ambassador of peace, making headlines in 2008 for her gesture to Russian counterpart Natalia Paderina during the Beijing Olympics amid geopolitical tensions.

Amidst ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and between Hamas and Israel, Salukvadze expressed a desire for unity in sports, emphasizing, "Sport must be without politics. Athletes and coaches are not interested in politics; it's all about Olympic spirit." Although she won't compete at the 2028 Los Angeles Games, she anticipates a return as a coach, praising the advancements of Indian shooters along the way.

(With inputs from agencies.)