Iivo Niskanen, a prominent Finnish skier, faced a setback during the Olympic 50-kilometer classic skiing event, having to withdraw approximately 15 kilometers into the race. His withdrawal was attributed to breathing difficulties, a consequence of his recent illness prior to the competition. This incident highlights the impact that health can have on athletes' performances, especially during high-stakes competitions such as the Olympics.

Dr. Maarit Valtonen, the chief medical officer of the Finnish Olympic Committee, emphasized the importance of Niskanen's full recovery from his illness. Following the race, Valtonen had a brief discussion with Niskanen about how to address his health issues and prevent similar challenges in the future. This dialogue is essential as it acknowledges the complex interplay between athletic performance and health, particularly in competitive sports where every athlete's condition can significantly influence their outcomes.

Valtonen also noted that there has been a notable decline in infections among athletes compared to previous Olympic events, indicating improvements in health management practices. In contrast, during the Pyeongchang Olympics in 2018, athletes faced higher infection rates, while at the Beijing 2022 Games, strict COVID-19 protocols resulted in no reported infections. This history underscores the ongoing efforts to safeguard athletes' health and the necessity for continual adaptation in health strategies for future competitions.