Feb 19 • 17:26 UTC 🇫🇷 France Le Figaro

2026 Olympics: 'I aimed for better...' admits Emily Harrop

French athlete Emily Harrop expressed mixed feelings after winning a silver medal in alpine skiing at the 2026 Olympics held in Bormio.

At the 2026 Winter Olympics in Bormio, French athlete Emily Harrop achieved a silver medal in the alpine ski mountaineering event, coming in second to Switzerland's Marianne Fatton. Despite showcasing a strong performance during the qualifying rounds and semifinals, Harrop felt a sense of disappointment after not securing gold, which she had originally aimed for. The podium ceremony was lively, with many of Harrop's supporters donning banana costumes, highlighting the festive atmosphere surrounding the event.

Reflecting on her experience, Harrop acknowledged the emotional complexity of sporting competitions, expressing that ambition can lead to heightened expectations and, consequently, a more painful fall after setbacks. "When one dares to be ambitious," she noted, "a single mistake can lead to significant disappointment." However, she also emphasized a sense of pride in her overall journey and accomplishments, acknowledging that achieving any medal at the Olympics is a remarkable feat, especially when she considers her younger self who never imagined reaching such heights.

Harrop's silver medal at the Bormio Games not only adds to her personal accolades but also highlights the competitive spirit within winter sports. As athletes like her continue to push boundaries, the story serves as an inspiration for young sports enthusiasts, particularly in France, underlining that ambition in sports can lead to both triumphs and tough lessons.

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