Finnish cross-country skier Arsi Ruuskanen faced a challenging race at the Tesero Olympic Ski Stadium, expressing frustration over significant grip problems during the traditional segment of the 10+10 kilometer combination event. He described his experience as disappointing, indicating that he felt like a 'beaten man' after the race. His performance was characterized by having to predominantly use his hands to ski uphill, which detracted from the overall skiing experience.

At the conclusion of the race, Ruuskanen placed at 11th, which was a considerable distance behind the winner, Johannes Klæbo, indicating a gap of about 50 seconds. Ruuskanen's struggles in the traditional segment were compounded by uncertainty over equipment choices, as he questioned whether he had selected the wrong skis or had insufficient grip wax. This uncertainty has prompted him to seek clarification from his support team regarding the problems encountered during the race.

As Ruuskanen and the Finnish ski team continue to navigate competitive pressures, his experience underscores the complexities of cross-country skiing, especially regarding gear choices and the importance of grip on performance. His reflections may resonate with athletes who face similar challenges, especially during crucial Olympic events.