In recent statements leading up to the Olympics, Astrid Øyre Slind responded sharply to remarks made by Therese Johaug regarding Frida Karlsson's growth as a competitor. Johaug, a prominent figure in Norwegian skiing, questioned Karlsson's ability to maintain consistency and suggested that she is not a guaranteed favorite for Olympic success. Slind, on the other hand, dismissed these criticisms as unfounded and overly harsh, commenting 'It gets too dumb' regarding Johaug's evaluation of Karlsson’s abilities.

Frida Karlsson, who recently secured her first Olympic gold medal with a significant lead in the 20-kilometer race, expressed confidence in her development as an athlete since the previous Olympics. Despite Johaug’s critical view, Karlsson believes that she has improved significantly and showcased this with her outstanding performance at the Games. This is especially telling considering the substantial doubt cast by Johaug on Karlsson’s potential to win more medals.

The unfolding rivalry and contrasting opinions between established stars like Johaug and emerging talents like Karlsson highlight the competitive nature of cross-country skiing ahead of major events. Johaug’s experience and past accolades set a high bar for younger athletes, but Slind's support for Karlsson suggests a shift towards recognizing and nurturing new talent in the sport. As the Olympics continue, the dynamics between these athletes will be crucial in shaping the narrative of competition and sportsmanship in the coming days.