Norwegian biathlete Sturla Holm Laegreid has disclosed that the intense scrutiny following his extraordinary confession at the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics took a significant physical toll on his body.
The 28-year-old bronze medallist, who stunned viewers worldwide by admitting to infidelity during his post-race interview, revealed he shed weight in the aftermath of the controversy.
Speaking to Norwegian public broadcaster NRK, Laegreid explained the impact on his wellbeing: "I think anyone who has experienced something similar can understand.
"It was a physical reaction, that's just how it is, it's simply part of the process."
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He acknowledged struggling with basic necessities: "It was difficult to eat and sleep. That's why I became thinner than I should have been."
The moment that sparked the furore came immediately after Laegreid secured his individual race bronze medal at the Games.
Through tears, he addressed the cameras with an emotional declaration: "There's someone I wanted to share this with who might not be watching today."
Norwegian biathlete Sturla Holm Laegreid has disclosed that the intense scrutiny following his extraordinary confession at the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics took a significant physical toll on his body
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He went on to describe meeting "the love of my life and the most beautiful and kindest person in the world" six months prior, before confessing: "And three months ago I made my biggest mistake and cheated on her."
The athlete had informed his partner of his unfaithfulness just one week before the Olympics, prompting her to end their relationship.
Laegreid later admitted he had deliberately dropped a metaphorical "nuclear bomb" during the broadcast, hoping it might convince his ex-girlfriend of the depth of his feelings.
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Sturla Holm Laegrei become a big talking point at the Winter Olympics
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"Because I am already hated by her, and I hope that maybe it can make her realise how much I love her," he explained of his reasoning.
His unnamed former partner subsequently issued a statement through Norwegian media, maintaining her anonymity whilst expressing her pain.
"Even after a declaration of love in front of the whole world, it's hard to forgive," she wrote.
"I did not choose to be put in this position, and it hurts to have to be in it."
The incident also overshadowed what should have been a triumphant moment for gold medallist Johan-Olav Botn, who had planned to dedicate his victory to late teammate Sivert Guttorm Bakken, who passed away merely two months before the Games commenced.
Laegreid subsequently expressed remorse for the disruption he caused, particularly to Botn.
Sturla Holm Laegreid won bronze at the Winter Olympics
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"I hadn't thought through what I did well enough. I apologised to everyone who was dragged in. Especially to Johan-Olav (Botn), who had the moment he deserved to enjoy, without me having to say what I said," he stated.
The athlete acknowledged he had "ruined the party" and described addressing the situation as tackling "a big elephant in the room."
Norway's biathlon coach Siegfried Mazet remarked: "It was a bit surprising what he said after the bronze medal. The world was surprised. I think he understood afterwards that it was not the right place to do it."
Looking ahead, Laegreid expressed optimism about his recovery, hoping forthcoming biathlon events would provide opportunities to regain his physical condition.