Ekaterina Gordeeva and Ilia Kulik are two of the most recognized names in the world of figure skating. Both Olympic champions, their partnership—on and off the ice—was a captivating chapter in modern skating history. From personal triumphs and heartbreaks to professional success and eventual separation, their story spans decades and continues to inspire fans across the globe. Here’s a closer look at their journey, their impact on the sport, and where they are today.
The Rise of Ekaterina Gordeeva
Ekaterina Gordeeva was born in Moscow in 1971 and rose to fame as one half of the legendary pair “Gordeeva and Grinkov.” She and her partner, Sergei Grinkov, began skating together when she was just eleven years old. Their chemistry on the ice quickly developed into real-life love, and the duo went on to win two Olympic gold medals in pairs figure skating—first in Calgary in 1988 and then again in Lillehammer in 1994.
Tragedy struck in 1995 when Sergei Grinkov died suddenly from a heart attack at the age of 28 during a practice session. Their love story, both beautiful and heartbreaking, touched millions. Ekaterina wrote a deeply personal memoir titled My Sergei: A Love Story, which offered fans an intimate look at her relationship with Grinkov and how she found the strength to continue after his untimely death.
Following the tragedy, Gordeeva transitioned to solo skating and continued performing professionally, showcasing grace, strength, and resilience.
Ilia Kulik’s Olympic Triumph
Ilia Kulik, born in 1977 in Moscow, became an international sensation when he won the gold medal at the 1998 Winter Olympics in Nagano. Just 20 years old at the time, his victory in men’s singles figure skating made him the youngest male Olympic champion in that discipline since 1948. Known for his elegant lines and impressive technical skills, Kulik’s performance included a clean quadruple toe loop and set a high standard in men’s skating.
After the Olympics, Kulik turned professional and began skating in shows around the world. He became a regular performer in Stars on Ice, where he crossed paths with Gordeeva. Their on-ice collaboration soon blossomed into a romantic relationship.
A New Beginning Together
Ekaterina Gordeeva and Ilia Kulik began dating in the late 1990s and eventually welcomed a daughter, Elizaveta (also known as Liza), in 2001. They married in a private ceremony in San Francisco on June 10, 2002.
As a couple, they became one of figure skating’s most beloved pairs. Their performances in ice shows brought together their personal connection and immense talent. Audiences loved seeing their real-life relationship reflected in their routines, which were often romantic, emotional, and deeply artistic.
In 2012, the couple took their passion for the sport even further by opening Kulik’s Skating in Lake Forest, California. The training center became a space for young skaters to develop their skills under the guidance of two Olympic-level champions. Their work as coaches and mentors helped shape the next generation of athletes.
Divorce and Life After Separation
After 14 years of marriage, Gordeeva and Kulik quietly divorced in 2016. While the reasons for the split were never publicly detailed, both chose to move forward respectfully and privately, continuing to raise their daughter and remain active in the skating community.
Gordeeva continued performing in skating shows and exhibitions. She also began choreographing and coaching, using her decades of experience to guide young skaters. In 2020, she married another Olympic pairs champion—Canadian skater David Pelletier, known for winning gold in the 2002 Winter Olympics. The marriage marked a new chapter in her personal life.
Ilia Kulik, meanwhile, remained involved in skating, focusing more on coaching and helping train elite-level skaters. While he performs less frequently, he continues to share his technical expertise and passion for the sport.
Their Legacy in Figure Skating
Both Ekaterina Gordeeva and Ilia Kulik have left lasting legacies in the world of figure skating. Gordeeva, with her elegance and emotional depth, changed the way audiences view artistry in pair skating. Her story of love, loss, and perseverance touched fans far beyond the skating world.
Kulik, on the other hand, brought a combination of athleticism and classic Russian grace to the men’s division. His Olympic victory and professional performances have inspired countless skaters who came after him.
Together, they not only thrilled audiences with their performances but also contributed to the growth of the sport through their coaching and skating school. Their shared journey—filled with both triumphs and transitions—remains one of the most compelling stories in the figure skating world.
Where Are They Now?
Today, Ekaterina Gordeeva lives in Canada with her husband David Pelletier. She occasionally performs in special skating events and continues to be active in mentoring young talent. Her daughter, Liza, has grown up largely out of the spotlight but has appeared in a few skating events alongside her mother over the years.
Ilia Kulik resides in the United States and remains involved in figure skating through his coaching and training work. He keeps a lower public profile but is respected in skating circles for his knowledge and dedication.
While their paths have diverged, both Gordeeva and Kulik continue to influence the world of figure skating. Their legacy is not just in medals or performances but in the grace with which they’ve handled change, pursued excellence, and inspired a global audience.
