Darya Nepryaeva, a Russian skier competing at the Olympics under a neutral flag, expressed admiration for Finnish athletes, remarking on the impressive performance of all four female Finnish sprinters who advanced easily from the qualifiers. Her comments reflect a sportsmanship spirit, highlighting the respect that exists among competitors amidst a complex geopolitical backdrop.

At 23 years old and with a brief history of interaction with the Finnish team, Nepryaeva noted that she often exchanges encouraging words with her fellow competitors, which brings a personal touch to the highly competitive atmosphere of the Olympics. She also shared her struggles in the Olympic scenarios, placing 17th in the combined ski event and 36th in the sprint, describing the monumental stage of the Games as a challenge but also an opportunity for growth.

Looking ahead, Nepryaeva is focused on her upcoming events, particularly the 10-kilometer freestyle race, where she hopes to improve her standing compared to her older sister, Natalia Terentyeva. Receiving encouragement from fellow Russian supporters at the ski stadium, her journey encapsulates the experiences of athletes striving for excellence while navigating the intricate dynamics of international sport, especially given the geopolitical tensions surrounding her representation.