Born in 2004, just recently turned 21, and already ranked number 6 in women's singles and number 2 in women's doubles on the European rankings, Polina Buhrova is one of Europe’s brightest talents. Her fanbase is also growing rapidly, which culminated earlier this year when she was named the BEC Fan Player of the Year 2024.

But the journey has not been smooth for the young Ukrainian, who has understandably been deeply affected by the situation in her home country. As a result, she has had to find alternative ways to continue developing her badminton game, despite being unable to train in Ukraine.

In an in depth interview conducted during this year’s European Championships, Polina shared insights into what it is like growing up as a young badminton talent in a country where badminton is not among the biggest sports, and how she views her future. The full interview can be seen at the bottom of this article.

If we go back to the very first time she held a racket, it did not happen like it does for many other badminton talents driven by love for the sport. Instead, it was because a music teacher told her she did not look good enough to be on stage during performances. As Polina puts it, "I was pretty bumpy and short", and so she was told to find a sport to get in better shape, which would allow her to continue her music career behind the piano. Her parents were not keen on her playing football, which is one of the biggest sports in Ukraine, so instead they sent her to a badminton hall. From that moment, everything changed. "My life has been changed, suddenly."

She quickly fell in love with the game and felt she had found a place where she could be herself and express herself freely. She completed music school, but ever since, her full focus has been on badminton.

When she started taking badminton seriously, competition was fierce. There were many young players to compete with, especially at her club, where four players in particular were pushing each other. For a long time, Polina was at the back of that group. But the same fire and spirit that we see on court today helped her fight her way forward and build the player we see emerging now.

Due to the situation in Ukraine, Polina and her doubles partner Yevheniia Kantemyr have had to create alternative training environments. They have now set up a base in Italy with their coaches Gloria Pirvanescu and Luca Crippa. Additionally, Polina has trained in Thailand, Malaysia, and Denmark at Peter Gade’s Academy. But under their current setup, it is only Polina and Yevheniia practicing together and therefore they rarely train actual doubles, despite currently being ranked the second best pair in Europe. Polina acknowledges that they don't practice much, and says that this might be why they have such a unique style.
"The style that no one can understand."

They go on court to do their best and play doubles in the way they understand it. She is open about the fact that their tactical understanding of doubles is limited and maybe that is exactly why many pairs find it hard to play against them. She also sees both herself and Yevheniia as two singles players who also play doubles on the side.
When asked about the fact that they are currently ranked higher in doubles than in singles, her answer is short and clear. "For now, yes."

Looking ahead, it is singles that is the clear priority for Polina. Even though she enjoys doubles, there is no doubt that singles is the long term goal for the young Ukrainian.

BEC Fan Player of the Year
Earlier this year, Polina was voted BEC Fan Player of the Year, a title she holds in very high regard. She was also surprised to even be nominated. She has received many harsh and negative comments on social media, and at times, she doubted whether people actually liked her. All she has ever tried to do is be herself on and off the court.

She deeply appreciates the fans who voted for her and those who support her by asking for autographs or selfies. She even encourages fans not to be shy or afraid to approach her. She genuinely values the interaction and connection.

Ukraine
Talking about Ukraine is understandably a difficult and sensitive topic. Whether she and her partner will one day be able to move their base back home is uncertain. With the current situation, it is not possible to travel back and forth for tournaments and the local infrastructure makes things even more difficult. But Ukraine is still her home, and as she says, "Everyone wants it to finish faster."

Now, Polina faces a couple of months in Asia with several exciting tournaments ahead. All we can do is keep our fingers crossed and see what the future holds for the young Ukrainian talents.

Interview