Kerttu Niskanen, a 37-year-old Finnish skier, surprised many with her fifth-place finish in the 10+10 kilometer combined race at Milano-Cortina, especially after struggling with influenza and a COVID-19 infection just a month prior. The aftermath of her illness raised doubts about her ability to compete; however, her performance within 30 seconds of the bronze medal has been described as remarkable given her tough start to the season. Expert analyst Pirjo Muranen noted that this outcome was both impressive and unexpected, showcasing Niskanen’s resilience and talent despite previous health setbacks.

Looking ahead, Niskanen is preparing for the main event of her season at the Olympic course in Val di Fiemme, where she will compete in the 50-kilometer classic mass start in two weeks. The analyst emphasized that this recent race demonstrated Niskanen's potential to remain a contender for a medal in her key event. Her ability to compete effectively post-illness signals not only her physical endurance but also her mental strength, crucial for high-stakes competitions.

In a press conference, Niskanen expressed her desire to participate in all races during the Milano-Cortina event, except for the traditional sprint. This commitment reflects her determination to boost her competitive edge and to maintain her medal aspirations. The upcoming competitions will be a true test of her recovery and readiness as she aims to secure a position on the podium amid fierce international competition.