Tõnis Sildaru, the coach and father of Olympic bronze medalist Henry Sildaru, spoke about the experience his son faced during the Milano Cortina Olympic Games. He noted that the qualification round was noticeably more stressful than the final, indicating that sometimes the pressure can be heightened during early rounds. Tõnis described Henry as an exceptionally calm athlete, which contributed to his performance in the final, despite the difficulties faced during qualification.

During a reflective conversation, Tõnis emphasized the importance of preparation and the mental aspect of competing at high levels. He mentioned that while athletes can feel nervous, the groundwork laid during training is crucial for success. He advocated for support and encouragement during tense moments, stating that there is little that can be done once the competition begins, highlighting the role of mental reassurance and maintaining a positive spirit.

Tõnis also touched upon the significance of repeated practice and developing a strong foundation through consistent training, which can enable athletes to perform well when it counts. He believes that the love for the sport and the shared quality time between coach and athlete play critical roles in achieving success in high-stakes situations, allowing for a deeper connection and understanding between him and his son as they pursue excellence together.