Johanna Matintalo, who aimed for an Olympic medal in women's cross-country skiing, experienced a significant disappointment at the 50-kilometer competition in Val di Fiemme. Having strong aspirations for the event, Matintalo was forced to drop out due to health issues that hindered her performance, highlighting the intense physical demands athletes face. Iltalehti's skiing expert, Pirjo Muranen, expressed regret over Matintalo's situation, suggesting that had she maintained the same momentum as in her previous performance, she could have contended for a bronze medal.

After the race, Matintalo mentioned that she had been experiencing mild flu-like symptoms earlier in the week, raising concerns about how slight health issues can severely impact an athlete's ability to perform at peak capacity. Muranen elaborated that in high-level sports, even minor ailments can lead to significant performance detriments, stressing the importance of physical well-being in achieving competitive success.

Kerttu Niskanen also competed fiercely for the bronze medal but faced her own challenges, demonstrating the unpredictable nature of competitive skiing. Matintalo's withdrawal not only limits her Olympic dreams but also underscores the broader challenges Finnish athletes face in achieving podium finishes amidst competitive pressures and health issues.