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We are delighted to share an exclusive interview given to Sisbond by Niina Petrõkina — the two-time European champion in women’s singles figure skating. The conversation touches on hard work, trust, and dreams. One of our missions is to inspire the Sisbond community, and we truly believe this interview does just that.
At Sisbond, we greatly admire your journey and believe you are a true inspiration to people around the world. What personal qualities do you think are essential to reach where you are today?
First and foremost, hard work — and most importantly, smart and well-thought-out work. In addition to that, determination, patience, and the ability not to give up even when things are difficult. Without discipline and belief in yourself, you won’t get very far.
It feels almost unreal that such a short time after surgery, you achieved two European Championship gold medals and a personal best. How was that possible?
Honestly, I sometimes wonder myself how it all happened so quickly. But I can say one thing — when someone truly wants something with all their heart and is willing to give everything for it, anything is possible. There are no hopeless situations; you always have to look for a solution.
How do you maintain inner belief and motivation on your journey to achieve your goals again and again?
I have an amazing team — coaches, family, and close friends. They motivate and support me immensely. It’s crucial to surround yourself with people who encourage growth and success. But at the core of everything is desire: first you set a goal, then you make a plan, and after that comes the work.
What has your journey in sport taught you as a person?
It may sound cliché, but above all, never to give up. No matter how difficult things are at the moment, you have to remember that after a dark period, a brighter one always follows. I’ve learned that talent alone is not enough — the key is hard work. When you reach a certain level, you can’t stop there; you always have to keep moving forward.
What is the source of your optimism, joy, and inner glow? Does it come from home, from partnerships?
I’ve been very optimistic, cheerful, and open-hearted since childhood. At one point, I trusted everyone and believed everything I was told. I’ve also experienced betrayal and getting hurt. After that, I closed myself off for a while, and now I trust very few people — my trust is hard to earn. Over time, I learned to sense people intuitively, and sometimes I feel pushed away from someone even before we truly interact. I trust my intuition. But when I realize I can trust someone, I’m always very open. My family, close people, and the knowledge that I’m doing what I love are also sources of my joy and glow.
What are your favorite ways to rest and relax — to recharge both body and mind?
The best rest is good sleep. Sometimes I enjoy going out with friends, sitting down, and having deep, heartfelt conversations. I also enjoy going to the spa or getting a massage. I recently moved into my own apartment and truly understood what real rest means — being at home. When you realize it’s truly your own home, that you are the lady of the house, it becomes a place where you can rest both physically and mentally.
What do you dream of?
I dream that all the goals I set for myself in the future will come true and that I can grow in different directions. I want to live life in a way that gives me plenty to look back on later (preferably fond memories, haha). I also dream of traveling the world and visiting all of its wonders.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years — as an athlete, as a person, as a woman?
I don’t like predicting the future, but I hope that in 10 years I’ll have a family and travel a lot — very, very much. In terms of sport, if my health allows, I see myself performing in shows and maybe even organizing them myself. As a person, I want to keep growing, and as a woman — like any girl — I’d like to stay beautiful and young, which is why I’ll definitely continue using the right skincare products.
What are your favorite beauty products or rituals that help you feel good every day?
I don’t really have rituals, but I do have a consistent routine. Every evening before bed, I remove my makeup, then use Pestle & Mortar Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum, followed by a moisturising face cream. Sometimes, when I want to give my skin extra rest, I apply a mask before going to sleep. If I wake up with tired eyes and have time in the morning, I use Pestle & Mortar Hydrogel Eye Patches.
My favorite products from Sisbond are:
Discover the special offer featuring Niina’s favourites here: Pestle & Mortar and Salt & Stone*
*Offer valid from 6–22 February 2026
Sisbond collaborates with Niina Petrõkina. We believe in long-term partnerships and in supporting one another. We wish Niina, and all Estonian athletes, great success in the upcoming major competitions.
