barsukova began competing at international competitions following the coaching change. for six years she competed under the shadow of other russian gymnasts, yanina batyrchina, amina zaripova, natalia lipkovskaya and then alina kabaeva. barsukova considered quitting rhythmic gymnastics until viner persuaded her to stay and be patient. she had her breakthrough in 1998. during an event dedicated to the 15th anniversary of ballet magazine, barsukova performed along with the stars of the theater. she performed her "dying swan" ball routine and received the unofficial title of "miss bolshoi theater".