27.03.2026 20:30
VakıfBank's Russian star Marina Markova drew attention with her statements. Markova talked about her first days at VakıfBank and her lifestyle in Turkey. Criticizing the driving habits in Istanbul, Markova said, "I don't want to adopt some habits here. Especially the way of driving. Many people here don't signal. I don't speed; I try to drive very carefully."
The Russian star of the Sultan League team VakıfBank, Marina Markova, made statements about her VakıfBank career, life in Turkey, and her private life.
''THIS SURPRISED ME A LITTLE''
Speaking about her first day at VakıfBank, Marina Markova said, "It was the day after the Olympic final, so the team was not at full strength. But the players who came were so happy to see each other, they greeted each other warmly, and hugged the coaches as if they were family members. This surprised me a little because I wasn't used to it. After all, I changed three teams last season. Then I learned that the club has its own manifesto, a guide containing a series of rules and suggestions for the players. For example, players are asked to smile more often at club staff and each other. There are many motivational quotes in the hall and locker room."
"PROBABLY NO ONE EXPECTED IT''
Continuing her words, the Russian player said, "To achieve this progress, I was coming to training early and then working extra, even drinking proteins I didn't like. I wasn't surprised at myself because I knew the work that was being done. But of course, I didn't expect such a season overall. Probably no one expected it. We became champions of Turkey and reached the Final Four in the Champions League. Our goal before the season started was just to reach the finals."
"HERE, MANY PEOPLE DON'T SIGNAL''
Markova explained that she had to be very careful while driving in Turkey, saying, "In my conversations, I have started to use Arabic expressions like 'inshallah' and 'mashallah'. I don't want to adopt some habits here, especially the way of driving. Many people here don't signal. I don't speed; I try to drive very carefully. Sometimes I am scared while driving here."
''IT'S NOT A MUST FOR MY BOYFRIEND TO BE RUSSIAN''
Finally, speaking about her private life, the successful athlete said, "I don't have a plan regarding my private life. It will be as it is. Most of my teammates are already married or engaged; this doesn't hinder them at all. The only problem is that it is always very difficult to find time for a wedding or a long vacation for those who play in the national team. It's not a must for my boyfriend to be Russian. The most important thing is that he is a good person. The same qualities we just talked about are important to me."