In an interview on ETV sports show, former figure skater Eva-Lotta Kiibus spoke about the upcoming Olympic debut of Niina Petrõkina at the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics. With high expectations following her successful defense of the European championship title earlier this year, Kiibus acknowledged the intense pressures that accompany Olympic events. She emphasized that the Olympics can significantly affect an athlete's performance due to overwhelming public attention and scrutiny.

Kiibus elaborated on the dual nature of the Olympic experience, highlighting its potential to either motivate athletes or overwhelm them. The grandeur of the Olympics can provide a surge of energy and inspiration, but it can also lead to anxiety and pressure, which may hinder performance. Athletes must find a balance in handling the emotional and mental challenges presented by such a high-stakes environment, which is distinct to the Olympic games.

As Petrõkina prepares to skate in the penultimate position of the fourth group, Kiibus noted that this placement could mean a long wait and further anticipation at the rink's edge. This additional waiting can be mentally taxing as athletes often contend with their nerves before the competition begins. Kiibus’s insights provide a glimpse into the complexities of competing on such a prominent stage as the Olympics, where every detail can influence an athlete's performance.