Elias Lajunen, an 18-year-old Finnish freeskier, experienced a severe fall during the big air qualifications, leading to a temporary loss of movement that shocked onlookers. As he attempted a trick that involved landing on his back, Lajunen landed awkwardly after a high leap, leaving him motionless in the snow while medical personnel rushed to his aid. The audience fell silent in concern for his well-being.

Fortunately, after being assessed, the Finnish Olympic team reported that Lajunen regained consciousness and was able to move his limbs, providing a sigh of relief to both his supporters and teammates. His status was updated later in the evening, confirming that he was in stable condition and that further examinations did not reveal any worrying injuries. He will, however, be kept in the hospital overnight for observation to ensure his health.

Elias is the son of Samppa Lajunen, a three-time Olympic gold medalist, and as a promising young talent, he had recently been integrated into Finland's Olympic team following successful participation with the B national team. This incident highlights the inherent risks in extreme sports like freestyle skiing, but also showcases the dedication of medical teams during competitions, ensuring the safety and health of athletes immediately following such accidents. Lajunen's recovery will be closely watched by fans and officials alike, as he is seen as a future star in the skiing arena.