After finishing her active career following the Paris Olympics, Australian rhythmic gymnast Alexandra Kiroi-Bogatyreva has remained in the sport in a new role. The athlete, who trained in Baku for three years, has opened her own academy in Melbourne and is now preparing a new generation of young gymnasts. Kiroi-Bogatyreva spoke to Idman.Biz about her achievements in this new chapter, her memories of Azerbaijan and her friends in Baku.
– How did the idea of creating the Kiroi Academy come about?
– It was born out of pure passion for the sport. After more than 17 years in rhythmic gymnastics – from international competitions to training under world-class coaches – I felt ready to create something meaningful here in Victoria. I wanted to build a space where athletes feel supported, inspired and safe, and where parents are confident their children are developing in a positive and well-structured environment.
– Are you satisfied with how the Academy is working and the results achieved this year?
– Yes, absolutely. 2025 became our first official year, and we finished it on a very strong and positive note. Our gymnasts showed noticeable progress in just a few months of training, the coaching staff worked with full dedication, and we achieved excellent results at state and national competitions. Most importantly, the culture within the Academy is developing exactly as I envisioned – it is athlete-centered.
– As a gymnast, you trained in Baku for three years. How do you remember that time?
– I am very grateful to my Azerbaijani family for shaping me both as an athlete and as a person. For their support, mentorship and guidance toward success. Training at the National Gymnastics Arena was a unique experience. I competed five times in World Cup stages in Baku, as well as at the European Cup and the World Championships. We trained daily for 8 to 10 hours.
– How do you stay connected with Azerbaijan?
– All my closest friends are in Baku. Zohra Aghamirova, Arzu Jalilova, the group routine team, the seniors, and the younger gymnasts. The coaches also always stay in touch and support me. This is my family, and they will always be with me.
– What inspires you in your current work?
– As a law student, an Olympian and a member of athlete rights committees, I am able to combine all the necessary elements to build a strong foundation for the Academy. I am inspired by the progress of our gymnasts, their passion for training and the trust families place in our program. Watching an athlete overcome challenges, gain confidence or achieve a personal goal is incredibly rewarding. Creating a community where respect and well-being are valued motivates me every day.
– Your sports career was full of significant moments. Which ones do you remember most fondly?
– Throughout my career, I won more than 300 medals, each one a step toward the Paris Olympics. Among the most meaningful moments are winning gold at the 2022 Commonwealth Games and bronze at the 2018 Commonwealth Games, when I was in my first year as a senior and the youngest athlete on the national gymnastics team. It was my first competition in front of more than 8,000 spectators, and I became the only Australian athlete able to handle the pressure and win an individual medal.
– How do you see yourself now – as an academy director, coach and law student?
– This stage of my life is a period of transition and growth. I have completed my elite athletic career and am focused on building new professional paths. Coaching came to me naturally, and I genuinely enjoy working with athletes. My legal education complements this work, expanding my understanding of governance and athlete protection – areas I aim to strengthen within our sport.
– What goals do you set for yourself and for the Academy in the future?
– The Kiroi Academy has many goals, and we are only at the beginning of the journey. Our main priority will always be the gymnasts – their safety, well-being and development as athletes and individuals. I want more children to fall in love with rhythmic gymnastics and for the sport to continue growing in Victoria. In the long term, I aim to expand programs, strengthen development pathways and establish the Kiroi Academy as a leading center in rhythmic gymnastics.
Zyaki Feyzullayev
