Russian sprint freestyler Vladislav Grinev was named the “Soldier of the Year” in the nomination for “best active athlete in Olympic sports.” Grinev, who swims under coach Vladimir Nutsubidze at the Army Central Sports Club in Moscow, won three medals at the 2019 World Championships in Gwangju. Grinev won the bronze medal in the 100 freestyle (47.82) and was fourth in the world for 2019 in that event (47.43).
The award was voted on by the public and was announced via a live stream by the Army Central Sports Club on Vkontakte.
Grinev also swam on Russia’s 4×100 freestyle and 4×100 medley relays that won medals at the championships. He led off the free relay with a 47.82 as the Russians won the silver at 3:09.97, and also anchored the morning medley relay (47.20) that won bronze in the finals.
Vladislav Grinev, 23, had a breakout year in 2019, winning three gold medals in relays at the European Short Course Championships in December as well as a bronze in the individual 100 freestyle.
Heading into the 2021 Olympics, Grinev will be 25 by the time the Tokyo Games commence in 451 days and will be a favorite to take home medals if he is permitted to compete. The Russian Federation was barred from flying its flag at international competitions and some athletes would be allowed to compete under a neutral flag if they can prove their innocence.