The piece reflects on the psychological toll experienced by athletes in the year following the Olympics, a phenomenon often characterized by anxiety and burnout due to the culmination of intense competitive pressure. It highlights that for some athletes, such as Dorothea Wierer, the Olympics mark a significant transition, closing a chapter of their sporting journey. The discussion emphasizes that when athletes leave the sport on a high note, it alleviates the need for psychological support since they can cherish their achievements and contributions to their sport.

The article also brings to light the generation of thirty-something athletes who have not only inspired fans but have been pivotal in sustaining the nation’s passion for victory. These athletes, who have frequently stood on the podium, leave behind lasting legacies that transcend mere statistics. With heartfelt gratitude, the piece acknowledges the impact these athletes have made, celebrating their careers while reflecting on the bittersweet nature of their goodbyes and the memories they created with the public.

As the article concludes, it touches on the uncertainty surrounding another athlete, Federica Brignone, and her knee injury, leaving readers in anticipation of her status. Wierer, noted for her historic achievements in biathlon, is specifically highlighted as an iconic figure in Italian sports history, having won numerous medals across different formats of her sport, demonstrating the remarkable talent and dedication that defined her career.