Latvian athlete Kristers Aparjods spoke candidly about his Olympic experience after finishing outside of the top three, expressing that he felt slightly cast aside like a discarded item. He noted that the presence of the Latvian flag around his shoulders made him feel secure and at home, highlighting the emotional significance of competing on such a grand stage. Aparjods asserted that the Olympic Games represent much more than just athletic competition, and he emphasized his desire to earn an Olympic medal for himself, underlining the value of the feelings attached to the event which he believes cannot be purchased.

Despite finishing fourth and missing the podium, Aparjods refused to attribute his result to external factors such as home advantage for others or any deficiencies in his sled. He maintained that even the three medalists likely did not perform their best in all four runs, reinforcing the unpredictability and competitiveness of the sport. His focus was on aiming for a better outcome rather than settling for his position, expressing a longing for a more sparkling achievement than a mere fourth place.

With the Olympics being a profound and comprehensive experience for him, Aparjods shared how he calms himself before starting races and aims to maximize his performance. Clearly dedicated and determined, he looks forward to the challenges ahead, showing resilience in the face of not achieving a medal – a testament to his commitment to the sport and his country, as he continues to strive for excellence in future competitions.