Idman.biz
Irina Kindzerskaya's name is well known to sports fans. She won Azerbaijan's only judo medal at the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics, taking home the bronze award. Her collection also includes medals from world and European championships, European Games, Islamic Solidarity Games, and "Grand Slam" competitions.
Irina Kindzerskaya spoke to Idman.biz about her current life, the possibility of returning to the tatami, and other issues.
– Irina, you haven't been seen in the information space for a while. What are you doing now, where do you live?
– After the Tokyo Olympics, I thought about taking a little rest and continuing my career. But this was not possible because the war started in Ukraine. I had the idea to return to Baku, but I didn't have an apartment. I thought that after the bronze I won at the Olympics, I would be helped with the housing issue, but there was no interest. I was treated like a legionnaire. However, my husband is Azerbaijani, we have a daughter, and for years I have represented Azerbaijan in major tournaments and tried to show worthy results. But apparently, that wasn't enough. When I felt that I was not valued there, I didn't want to continue. I currently live in Italy with my family and am taking care of my child.
– Do you keep in touch with Azerbaijani athletes?
– I mainly communicate with Maria Stadnik. I am not in close contact with others, but I congratulate them on their victories and medals.
– After the bronze at the Tokyo Olympics, you practically ended your career. What memories do you remember the most?
– There have been many good and difficult moments. But each of them ultimately provided a positive experience. The medals of the European and world championships, and of course, the Olympics - these are unforgettable.
– What changes do you see when you watch judo from the outside now?
– In my opinion, the level of judo has weakened somewhat. Many strong athletes in the +78 kg weight category are no longer on the tatami. Sometimes I am surprised when I look at the list of prize winners of some competitions. Because in my time, those athletes could not even get into the top three.
– Do you have a feeling in sports like "there is something I couldn't finish"?
– Actually, I have a medal from all tournaments. But I would like to improve the quality of the medal collection a little more. But that's how it turned out.
– Two years ago, your daughter Amira was born. Do you think she will also be interested in sports?
– If my daughter has the enthusiasm and interest, I will definitely support her. It will be her choice.
– How do you see your future?
– I want to stay in sports. But it is not yet clear in what status - as an athlete or as a coach. I want to return to the tatami. I missed it so much during my maternity leave, my strength and motivation have increased.
– Are you planning to come to Baku in the near future?
– Of course, we will definitely come. We have our parents and relatives here. Regardless of who considers me a legionnaire and who considers me one of our own, our family lives in Baku and we love them very much. Azerbaijan will always be home to me.
Zeki Feyzullayev
