Russian ballerina Anastasia Volochkova has defended her decision to perform a leg split in an open dressing room window for her gathering fans, stating that she does not consider the public stretch inappropriate.
Speaking to Russian media outlet Absatz on September 21, 2026, the artist explained that she decided to climb into the window frame after hearing supporters calling out to her from the street below following her show.
The incident took place a day prior to her interview when crowd members assembled outside the venue. Volochkova recounted that it was an amazing day and night, adding that she raised her leg to 180 degrees to greet the people who had gathered to see her.
Recovery From Hip Replacement Surgery
The performer emphasized that she views completing the 180 degree split as a heroic personal achievement because she previously underwent a hip replacement operation. She added that while her physical flexibility remains widely recognized, she has achieved numerous other accomplishments over the course of her professional life.
Volochkova insisted that one undeniable fact remains that she has already gone down in history as an outstanding, genuine Russian ballerina. She added that her standing in classical dance is something she can always point to and will continue to rely upon throughout her career.
Classical Ballet Background and Public Profile
Volochkova rose to national prominence as a principal dancer with the Bolshoi Ballet in Moscow, one of the world's most renowned classical dance institutions. Over decades of performing, she established a major presence in Russian popular culture, frequently drawing media attention for her acrobatic flexibility and high-profile public appearances.
Joint replacement surgery, such as the hip procedure Volochkova underwent, involves removing damaged joint surfaces and inserting artificial implants. For professional ballet dancers, returning to extreme range-of-motion movements like vertical leg extensions after joint surgery requires intensive physical therapy and long-term recovery.
Prepared Responses and Online Memes
Addressing her frequent media appearances, Volochkova previously explained why she tends to repeat specific phrasing across different interviews. She admitted that she relies on prepared responses for questions that journalists regularly repeat, several of which have gained widespread meme status across social networks.
