Anastasiia Gubanova's Viral Skate to Dhurandhar at Olympics 2026
In the glittering world of figure skating, where grace meets athletic prowess, Anastasiia Gubanova has emerged as a captivating force. At the Winter Olympics 2026 in Milan-Cortina, Italy, the 23-year-old Georgian skater delivered a performance that fused international flair with viral sensation, skating to the infectious Dhurandhar title track. This routine not only showcased her technical mastery but also highlighted her ability to blend cultural elements, drawing millions of views online and sparking global conversations about the evolving nature of competitive skating.
From Russian Roots to Georgian Glory
Anastasiia Gubanova's journey began in Moscow, Russia, where she was born on February 28, 2002. Training under renowned coaches in one of the world's skating powerhouses, she quickly rose through the junior ranks. By 2018, Gubanova had claimed the silver medal at the World Junior Championships, impressing with her precision in jumps and spins. However, the geopolitical shifts following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022 led to a ban on Russian athletes competing under their flag in international events, including the Olympics.
Facing limited opportunities, Gubanova made the bold decision to switch nationalities and represent Georgia in 2023. This move, approved by the International Skating Union (ISU), allowed her to continue her career on the global stage. 'It was a tough choice, but skating is my life,' Gubanova shared in a post-competition interview. Her transition wasn't seamless; she had to adapt to new training facilities in Tbilisi while maintaining her rigorous schedule. Yet, this resilience paid off, propelling her to new heights in senior competitions.
Key Milestones in Her Career
Gubanova's senior debut was marked by a bronze at the 2021 European Championships, where her short program to classical music earned high marks for artistic interpretation. She followed this with consistent placements in the ISU Grand Prix series, including a silver at the 2023 Skate Canada International. Her technical arsenal includes triple Lutz-triple toe combinations and a signature Biellmann spin that mesmerizes audiences.
In the 2024-2025 season, Gubanova hit a career peak with a fourth-place finish at the World Championships in Boston. Judges praised her for balancing difficulty with elegance, scoring 78.45 in the short program—a personal best. This momentum carried into the Olympics preparation, where she focused on incorporating more contemporary music to appeal to younger fans.
The Dhurandhar Performance: A Cultural Fusion
The Winter Olympics 2026 opened with high anticipation for women's singles figure skating, and Gubanova's free skate routine became an instant highlight. Choosing the Dhurandhar title track—a viral hit from Indian cinema known for its energetic beats and rhythmic flair—Gubanova created a program that transcended traditional skating boundaries. The track, which exploded on social media platforms for its catchy hook, infused her routine with vibrant energy, contrasting the usual orchestral scores.
Dressed in a shimmering outfit blending Georgian patterns with subtle Indian motifs, Gubanova executed flawless triple Axels and a dramatic layback spin synchronized to the song's crescendo. Her performance scored 142.30 in the free skate, contributing to an overall silver medal tally—Georgia's first in figure skating history. 'I wanted to bring joy and surprise,' she explained. 'Dhurandhar represents power and rhythm, much like skating itself.' The routine's viral nature amplified its impact; clips garnered over 10 million views on TikTok within hours, trending with hashtags like #GubanovaDhurandhar and #OlympicSkateViral.
Impact on Figure Skating Trends
Gubanova's choice reflects a broader shift in figure skating toward pop and world music integrations. Historically dominated by classical pieces like Tchaikovsky or Ravel, the sport is evolving to attract diverse audiences. Experts note that routines like hers could encourage more athletes from non-traditional skating nations to experiment, potentially diversifying the podium. ISU officials have commended such innovations, as they boost viewership—Olympics 2026 broadcasts saw a 15% uptick in youth engagement post-performance.
Critics, however, debate the balance between entertainment and technical purity. While Gubanova's program emphasized artistic components (scoring 38.20 out of 50), purists argue for stricter adherence to skating's balletic roots. Nonetheless, her success underscores the ISU's recent rule tweaks allowing more flexible music choices, fostering creativity.
Challenges and Future Prospects
Despite her triumphs, Gubanova faces hurdles. The nationality switch brought scrutiny from Russian fans, and adapting to Georgia's milder climate affected her ice training. Injuries, including a minor ankle sprain in 2025, tested her endurance, but physiotherapy and mental coaching helped her rebound stronger.
Looking ahead, Gubanova eyes the 2027 World Championships and a gold at the 2030 Olympics. She's mentoring young Georgian skaters, aiming to build a national program. Off-ice, she's an advocate for mental health in sports, sharing her story on platforms like Instagram, where she has 500,000 followers.
Why Gubanova Matters in Modern Sports
In an era of global connectivity, athletes like Gubanova embody borderless talent. Her story—from Moscow's rinks to Milan's Olympic stage—highlights perseverance amid adversity. As figure skating grapples with inclusivity post-Russia ban, her performances remind us that sport unites. With the Dhurandhar routine etched in Olympic lore, Anastasiia Gubanova isn't just skating; she's redefining the glide.
This article draws from official ISU records, Olympic broadcasts, and athlete interviews, celebrating a skater who's as dynamic as the tracks she chooses.
