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Free diver Molchanova missing in Spanish waters

August 5, 2015

Free diving champion Natalia Molchanova has gone missing off the coast of Spain's Balearic Islands. The record-breaking sportswoman was diving at a depth of 30 to 40 meters (100-130 feet) without fins.

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Spanien Freitaucherin Natalia Moltschanowa im Mittelmeer vermisst
Image: Getty Images/AFP/J. Munch

Spanish rescuers have searched for world-renowned free diver Natalia Molchanova after she failed to resurface on Sunday during a recreational dive off of Spain's Balearic Islands.

According to the international diving federation AIDA, the 53-year-old Russian was diving at a depth of 30 to 40 meters (100-130 feet) without fins when she was separated from her colleagues.

The statement said that it was likely she had come across a "strong underwater current."

On Sunday, Spanish rescue services deployed a boat, divers and even a helicopter in search of Molchanova.

However, Spanish rescue services reportedly called off an underwater search on Wednesday, noting that they would focus on monitoring the sea surface for traces of the record-breaking free diver, reported AP news agency.

Spanish police said Molchanova's family hired an underwater robot to continue the search, adding that the search would continue until Sunday.

The Russian sportswoman was known for breaking several world records. She was also capable of holding her breath for nine minutes.

"Natalia Molchanova is the most decorated competitive free diver in the world, holding 41 World Records and is a 23 time World Champion in free diving," noted AIDA.

"The cause of Natalia's disappearance is unknown, but she was doing what she loved. Natalia has a passion for free diving that burned so deep inside of her that she dedicated her life to it," said AIDA.

ls/jil (AP, AFP)