Kristjan Ilves, a Nordic combined athlete from Estonia, participated in the Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics, where he sparked considerable emotional support from fans as he competed in the ski jumping and 10 km cross-country events. Despite finishing sixth overall and being the first to start the cross-country race, Ilves's performance was met with enthusiasm, with many viewers expressing their excitement on social media. Phrases of encouragement and humor were prevalent, showcasing the strong bond between Ilves and his supporters.

Among the public cheering for Ilves was Estonia's Prime Minister Kristen Michal, highlighting the national pride and communal spirit surrounding his Olympic journey. Viewers were deeply engaged, with reactions ranging from anxiety about the competition to euphoric expressions of appreciation for Ilves's efforts, which demonstrated the significance of athletes and the emotional investment of their fans during major sporting events.

Following the event, Kristjan Ilves addressed the audience in a live broadcast from ETV, expressing that he felt no disappointment with his sixth-place finish. He acknowledged the challenges he faced, noting that the competition was fierce and that a medal was a distant hope due to the speed of the other competitors. Ilves's sentiments reflect the determination and sportsmanship typical of Olympic athletes, emphasizing that, for him, the experience itself was rewarding, filled with exhilaration and public support.