Marghiev Zalina

About

Zalina Marghieva is one of the most remarkable athletes from the Republic of Moldova, specializing in the hammer throw, with an impressive career spanning over 20 years. Born on February 5, 1988, in Vladikavkaz (formerly Ordzhonikidze, Russia), she debuted at the Olympic Games in 2008 in Beijing, subsequently participating in the 2012, 2016, 2020, and 2024 editions in Paris, becoming the first Moldovan athlete with five consecutive appearances, a national record. Among her top achievements are 5th place at the Rio 2016 Olympics, 4th place at the 2019 World Championships in Doha, the European U23 gold in 2009, victories at the European Throwing Cup (including seniors and U23), and the national record of 75.95 meters set in 2024 in Balchik, Bulgaria, which secured her qualification for Paris. She collaborates closely with the Athletics Federation of the Republic of Moldova and has represented the country in major competitions such as the World University Games (gold in 2011, bronze in 2013), European Championships (5th place in 2010 and 2016), and multiple Balkan championships. Coached by her father, Soslan Marghiev, a former member of the USSR national team, Zalina was named Sportswoman of the Year 2011 by the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the most beautiful sportswoman in 2012 by the National Olympic Committee. Her performances have consistently placed her in the world's top 10, contributing to the promotion of Moldovan athletics on the international stage. Zalina comes from a family dedicated to sports, where hammer throwing is a tradition: her parents Soslan and Alexandra were elite athletes in the USSR, and her siblings, Marina and Serghei Marghiev, are also accomplished hammer throwers, with Serghei achieving similar results in international competitions. With a height of 170 cm and a weight of 90 kg, she proudly states: "I am proud and honored to be part of Team Moldova, to fight and defend the dignity of my country." The dream of an Olympic medal remains her ultimate goal, crowning a career marked by perseverance and excellence.