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Melnikova Leads Chemnitz to DTL Win in Esslingen as Neutral Status Draws Political Criticism

The league says it must follow FIG's neutral-athlete ruling.

Overview

  • Angelina Melnikova posted a 55.40 total to top the field and propel TSV Tittmoning-Chemnitz to victory in Esslingen.
  • The Deutsche Turnliga said it is bound by FIG eligibility decisions for neutral athletes and will review procedures to avoid similar conflicts.
  • Esslingen mayor Matthias Klopfer condemned Chemnitz’s choice to field Melnikova, citing her support for Vladimir Putin’s regime.
  • Criticism references her 2022 photo with the "Z" symbol and her appearance this year as a United Russia candidate, which she later said she withdrew.
  • Police maintained a presence at the venue without protests, and it remains unconfirmed whether she will appear at the Nov. 29 DTL final in Heidelberg.