Marat Safin: Sister, Wife, Relationships & Tennis Legend

Tobin Grant PhD 10 May 2025

Ever wondered why Dinara Safina's social media is almost exclusively populated with images of one person? It's her brother, Marat Safin, a testament to the incredibly strong sibling bond they share.

The closeness between Dinara Safina and her brother, Marat Safin, is undeniable. She consistently expresses her gratitude for having him in her life, never missing an opportunity to acknowledge the profound impact he's had. While Dinara carved her own path to the pinnacle of women's tennis, achieving the world number one ranking and securing 12 WTA titles, her brother's influence and support have been a constant source of strength and inspiration. Her admiration for him extends beyond his tennis achievements; its rooted in the deep connection they forged growing up and the unwavering support they provide each other in all aspects of life. Safina's unwavering admiration clearly indicate the bond between brother-sister.

Category	Information
Full Name	Marat Moubinovitch Safin ( )
Date of Birth	January 27, 1980
Place of Birth	Moscow, Russia
Nationality	Russian
Height	6 ft 4 in (1.93 m)
Weight	88 kg (194 lbs)
Turned Pro	1997
Retired	2009
Playing Style	Aggressive Basliner
Highest Ranking	No. 1 (November 20, 2000)
Grand Slam Titles	US Open (2000), Australian Open (2005)
ATP Titles	15
Davis Cup Titles	2 (2002, 2006)
Political Career	Member of the State Duma (2011-2017)
Father	Mikhail Safin
Mother	Rauza Islanova
Sister	Dinara Safina (Former World No. 1 Tennis Player)
Spouse	Anna Druzyaka (Married since 2012)
Past Relationships	Aida Garifullina, Daria Zhukova, Elena Korikova, Anastasiya Osipova
Zodiac Sign	Aquarius
Reference Link	ATP Tour Profile

Marat Safin's personal life has often been a subject of media attention. While some reports once suggested that Marat Safin would marry model Anna Druzyaka and even hold ceremonies in both Moscow and New York, Safin is married to Anna Druzyaka since 2012. He has also been romantically linked to several prominent figures, including opera singer Aida Garifullina, socialite Daria Zhukova, actress Elena Korikova, and model Anastasiya Osipova. Daria Zhukova, before her marriage to Roman Abramovich, reportedly dated Safin in 2003. Anna Druzyaka, a Russian model born on November 12, 1983, is described as having no other known significant relationships prior to her marriage to Safin. These relationships, both confirmed and rumored, have contributed to the public perception of Safin as a charismatic and sought-after figure.

Beyond the romantic entanglements, Safin's life is marked by significant achievements both on and off the court. His sister, Dinara Safina, is a constant presence in his life, highlighting the deep family connection. Safin's impact on tennis is undeniable, with his powerful game and captivating personality earning him a place among the sport's elite. He remains a respected figure in the tennis world and a prominent personality in Russian society. His post-tennis career has included a stint as a politician, demonstrating his commitment to public service. Safin's journey, from a promising junior player to a Grand Slam champion and political figure, reflects a multifaceted individual with diverse talents and interests.

Born on January 27, 1980, in Moscow, Marat Moubinovitch Safin, is of Tatar descent. His tennis journey began at the TK Spartak, under the guidance of his father, where he trained alongside future stars like Anna Kournikova and Elena Dementieva. His professional career, spanning from 1997 to 2009, saw him capture 15 singles titles, including the US Open in 2000 and the Australian Open in 2005, solidifying his status as a world-class player.

Marat Safin's rise to the top of the tennis world was marked by a combination of raw talent, relentless determination, and a fiery temperament that often made him a captivating figure on the court. He possessed a powerful serve, a formidable forehand, and an aggressive baseline game that could overwhelm opponents. His victory at the 2000 US Open, where he defeated Pete Sampras in the final, announced his arrival as a major force in the sport. The Australian Open title in 2005 further cemented his legacy, showcasing his ability to perform at the highest level under pressure. Throughout his career, Safin battled injuries and inconsistencies, but his moments of brilliance were undeniable. He was known for his emotional outbursts on the court, often smashing rackets and arguing with umpires, but this passion also fueled his competitive spirit and contributed to his unique appeal.

While Safin achieved the coveted world number one ranking, his reign at the top was relatively short-lived. However, his impact on the game extended beyond rankings and statistics. He was a charismatic and unpredictable player who brought excitement and flair to the sport. His rivalry with players like Roger Federer and Andy Roddick produced some memorable matches, and his presence on the court always guaranteed a compelling spectacle. Safin's contributions to Russian tennis are also significant. He played a key role in Russia's Davis Cup victories in 2002 and 2006, showcasing his commitment to his country and his ability to perform well in team competitions. He remains a popular figure in Russia, admired for his achievements and his outspoken personality.

Dinara Safina, on the other hand, had an impressive career in her own right. She achieved the world number one ranking and secured 12 WTA titles. Safina allegedly retired from professional tennis, as announced by her brother marat safin, on october 7, 2011. Safin mentioned that Dinara had made the decision to end her career and that she had taken the decision relatively well, considering it to be simply the end of a period in her life.

Although Dinara Safina officially retired from professional tennis on October 7, 2011, as announced by her brother, Marat Safin, her departure from the sport was not entirely unexpected. Years of persistent back problems had significantly hampered her performance and curtailed her ability to compete at the highest level. While she had reached the pinnacle of the women's game, her career was ultimately cut short by these physical challenges. The announcement, delivered by her brother, highlighted the difficult decision she had faced and the acceptance she had found in moving on to the next chapter of her life. Safina's journey to the top was marked by unwavering dedication and a powerful game that saw her reach three Grand Slam finals, although she never managed to secure a title. Her consistent performance and mental fortitude earned her the respect of her peers and the admiration of fans around the world.

Safina's career, although relatively brief compared to some of her contemporaries, was filled with memorable moments and significant achievements. She possessed a strong serve and a powerful baseline game that allowed her to dominate opponents. Her ability to strike the ball with tremendous power and precision made her a formidable force on the court. She also displayed a strong mental game, often battling back from difficult situations to secure victories. Despite the challenges she faced with injuries, Safina remained a determined and competitive player throughout her career. She was known for her professionalism and her dedication to the sport, earning her a reputation as a respected and admired figure in the tennis community. Her legacy extends beyond her on-court achievements, as she served as an inspiration to aspiring tennis players in Russia and around the world.

Marat Safin's post-tennis life has been as diverse as his on-court career. He ventured into politics, serving as a member of the State Duma from 2011 to 2017. In the political arena, he represented the United Russia party, focusing on issues related to sports and youth development. His transition from the tennis court to the political sphere was met with both interest and skepticism, but Safin approached his new role with the same passion and intensity that characterized his tennis career. He used his platform to advocate for increased investment in sports infrastructure and to promote healthy lifestyles among young people. Safin's political career provided him with an opportunity to contribute to his country in a different capacity, leveraging his fame and influence to address important social issues. While he ultimately chose not to seek re-election, his time in the State Duma allowed him to gain valuable experience in the world of politics and to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others.

Since leaving politics, Safin has maintained a relatively low profile, but he remains involved in various projects related to sports and philanthropy. He occasionally participates in exhibition matches and charity events, using his platform to raise money for worthy causes. He has also been involved in promoting tennis in Russia, working to develop young talent and to increase participation in the sport. Safin's commitment to giving back to his community and to supporting the next generation of athletes reflects his strong sense of social responsibility. He remains a popular and respected figure in Russia, admired for his achievements on the tennis court and his contributions to society. While he may no longer be in the spotlight as frequently as he once was, Marat Safin continues to make a positive impact on the world around him.

The siblings' success in professional sports is undoubtedly influenced by their parents who are deeply rooted in tennis. Marat and Dinara's father, Mikhail Safin, was a tennis coach who played a crucial role in their early development. Their mother, Rauza Islanova, was also a tennis coach. This strong family foundation in tennis provided them with the necessary guidance, support, and resources to excel in the sport. They are one of the few siblings in tennis to both achieve the World No. 1 ranking.

Marat Safin, a name synonymous with power, passion, and unpredictability, left an indelible mark on the world of tennis. His explosive game, coupled with his captivating personality, made him a fan favorite and a formidable opponent. Safin's career, though marked by periods of injury and inconsistency, was punctuated by moments of brilliance that cemented his place among the sport's elite. His two Grand Slam titles, the 2000 US Open and the 2005 Australian Open, stand as testaments to his immense talent and his ability to perform at the highest level under pressure. Beyond his Grand Slam triumphs, Safin captured 15 ATP singles titles, showcasing his consistent excellence and his versatility on different court surfaces. His achievements earned him the world number one ranking in November 2000, a pinnacle that few players ever reach.

Safin's impact on the game extended beyond his on-court accomplishments. He was a charismatic and engaging figure who brought a unique energy to the sport. His fiery temperament and his willingness to express his emotions, often resulting in smashed rackets and heated exchanges with umpires, made him a compelling and unpredictable player to watch. While some criticized his behavior, others admired his passion and his unwavering commitment to winning. Safin's rivalry with players like Roger Federer and Andy Roddick produced some memorable matches, captivating audiences and showcasing the intensity of competition at the highest level. He was a true entertainer who always gave his all on the court, leaving fans with lasting memories.

Dinara Safina, while often overshadowed by her brother's fame, carved her own impressive career in women's tennis. She rose to the world number one ranking in 2009, demonstrating her talent and her dedication to the sport. Safina reached three Grand Slam finals, at the French Open in 2008 and 2009 and at the Australian Open in 2009, but was unable to secure a title. Despite these near misses, she won 12 WTA singles titles, showcasing her consistency and her ability to compete at the highest level. Safina's game was characterized by her powerful groundstrokes and her aggressive baseline style. She was known for her mental toughness and her ability to battle back from difficult situations. While injuries ultimately cut short her career, Safina left a lasting impact on women's tennis, inspiring aspiring players with her determination and her unwavering commitment to the sport.

The Safin siblings' success is a testament to their talent, their hard work, and the strong family support they received throughout their careers. Their father, Mikhail Safin, was a tennis coach who played a crucial role in their early development. Their mother, Rauza Islanova, also contributed to their training and provided unwavering support. The Safin family's dedication to tennis created an environment where both Marat and Dinara could thrive and reach their full potential. Their story is an inspiration to aspiring athletes and a reminder of the importance of family support in achieving success.

Beyond his tennis prowess, Marat Safin's interests extend into the realms of art, philosophy, and travel. He is known to be a voracious reader, devouring books on history, philosophy, and spirituality. His intellectual curiosity and his desire to understand the world around him have shaped his perspective and influenced his decisions. Safin is also an avid art collector, with a particular interest in contemporary Russian art. He appreciates the beauty and the creativity of art, and he believes that it can provide valuable insights into human nature and society. Travel is another passion of Safin's, and he has explored numerous countries and cultures. He enjoys experiencing new things, meeting new people, and learning about different ways of life. His travels have broadened his horizons and enriched his understanding of the world.

The close relationship between Marat Safin and Dinara Safina is evident in their public appearances and in their interactions with the media. They often attend each other's matches and support each other's endeavors. Their bond is based on mutual respect, admiration, and a shared understanding of the challenges and triumphs of professional sports. They are not only siblings but also close friends who rely on each other for support and guidance. The Safin siblings' story is a testament to the power of family and the importance of strong relationships in navigating the complexities of life.

In recent years, Marat Safin has expressed his views on various social and political issues. He has been critical of certain aspects of modern society, particularly the increasing emphasis on materialism and consumerism. He believes that people should focus on developing their inner selves and on pursuing meaningful goals rather than chasing after superficial pleasures. Safin has also spoken out about the importance of environmental protection and the need to address climate change. He is a strong advocate for sustainable living and for preserving the planet for future generations. His outspokenness and his willingness to challenge the status quo have made him a respected voice in Russian society.

Marat Safin's legacy extends beyond his tennis achievements. He is remembered as a charismatic and engaging figure who brought passion and excitement to the sport. His explosive game, his fiery temperament, and his willingness to express his emotions made him a captivating player to watch. Safin's impact on tennis is undeniable, and he remains a popular and respected figure in Russia and around the world. His story is an inspiration to aspiring athletes and a reminder of the importance of pursuing one's dreams with passion and determination. The Safin siblings, Marat and Dinara, have both left an indelible mark on the world of tennis, and their contributions to the sport will be remembered for years to come.

Safin's influence on the younger generation of Russian tennis players is also significant. He served as an inspiration to many aspiring athletes, demonstrating that it was possible to achieve success on the world stage. His achievements motivated young players to work hard and to believe in their own abilities. Safin's legacy continues to inspire the next generation of Russian tennis stars, who strive to emulate his success and to carry on his tradition of excellence.

While Marat Safin's playing days are over, his impact on the world of tennis remains significant. He is remembered as a unique and unforgettable figure who brought passion, excitement, and a touch of unpredictability to the sport. His achievements on the court, his charismatic personality, and his outspoken views have made him a lasting icon in the world of tennis. The Safin siblings, Marat and Dinara, have both left an indelible mark on the sport, and their contributions will be celebrated for years to come. Their story is a testament to the power of family, the importance of hard work, and the pursuit of one's dreams.

Marat Safin, a former world No. 1 tennis player, two-time Grand Slam champion, and Davis Cup winner, remains a prominent figure in both the sports and political arenas. His sister, Dinara Safina, also a former world No. 1, shares a remarkably close bond with him. Safin's personal life, including his marriage to Anna Druzyaka and past relationships with figures like Daria Zhukova, has been a subject of public interest. His career, spanning from 1997 to 2009, saw him win 15 ATP titles and represent Russia in the Davis Cup. Post-retirement, Safin served as a member of the State Duma from 2011 to 2017. His life reflects a multifaceted individual with achievements in sports, politics, and beyond, deeply intertwined with the strong family connection he shares with his sister, Dinara.