Kerttu Niskanen made headlines after her 50-kilometer race performance at the Milan-Cortina Olympics, where she finished seventh, missing out on the bronze medal. Despite not appearing overly fatigued, she controversially walked past the podium without acknowledging the winners, which sparked discussions about her demeanor post-race. Niskanen shared she felt capable of continuing to ski, suggesting she was not satisfied with her performance, and expressed her frustration at not competing at her absolute limit despite following her planned strategy well.

During the final stages of the race, Niskanen found herself making a pivotal decision by switching skis two laps before the finish. She had selected a pair she was confident about, and while the initial phases felt strong, the last two laps became a struggle for her. The change was a tactical move that she believed would enhance her performance, yet she ultimately felt it did not pay off as hoped, leading to a sense of disappointment. Niskanen's remarks reflect her high competitive standards and her realization that not every strategy leads to victory.

In the context of her decision not to congratulate the winners, this incident highlights the pressures athletes face during high-stakes competitions and the emotional aftermath of unexpected results. Niskanen's prowess on the track has made her a prominent figure in Finnish skiing, and her reactions can influence public perception and team dynamics. As her performance continues to evolve, this race will be remembered not only for the results but for the lessons learned in competition and sportsmanship.