Fresh intrigue surrounds Russian President Vladimir Putin's private life after his alleged secret son with former Olympic gymnast Alina Kabaeva was reportedly seen performing on stage.
The 10-year-old boy, whose existence has never been officially confirmed by the Kremlin, appeared to be following in his mother's footsteps during a recent public appearance.
A Legacy of Gymnastics
Kabaeva, 39, won gold at the 2004 Athens Olympics and was long rumoured to be romantically involved with Putin before disappearing from public view several years ago. The young boy's performance has reignited speculation about Putin's family life, which he guards fiercely.
Years of Speculation
Western intelligence agencies have previously claimed the Russian leader fathered children with Kabaeva, though these reports have never been verified. The Kremlin maintains strict silence about Putin's personal relationships.
Observers noted striking similarities between the young performer and Putin during his childhood, though no official confirmation of their relationship has been made.
Life Away from the Spotlight
Kabaeva has maintained an extremely low profile in recent years, with occasional appearances sparking intense media scrutiny. The former athlete now heads Russia's National Media Group, a major media holding company.
The stage appearance by her alleged son comes at a sensitive time for Putin, who has cultivated an image of privacy around his family life while maintaining tight control over media coverage of his presidency.
