Triple Olympic gold medalist Aleksandr Bolshunov has caused a stir in Russia by not celebrating with his teammates after the Tatarstan team clinched victory in the mixed relay at the Russian national championships in cross-country skiing. His actions sparked criticism and confusion, especially given the usual camaraderie expected after such significant victories. According to Russian media outlet Sport-Express, the incident has raised eyebrows nationwide, highlighting the complexities of Bolshunov's relationships with his fellow athletes.

Speculation surrounding Bolshunov's behavior points to a strained relationship with teammate Veronika Stepanova, whom he has had a contentious history with in the media. This feud may have played a crucial role in his decision to distance himself from the team during what should have been a celebratory moment. Furthermore, Bolshunov's previous disappointing performance, finishing fifth in the 20-kilometer skiathlon at the same championships, potentially contributed to his feelings of frustration, leading him to leave his teammates to celebrate alone.

Stepanova, a vocal figure in their rivalry, has made several remarks targeting Bolshunov, particularly following his underwhelming performance in the skiathlon event. The mixed emotions of competition, rivalry, and the high stakes of national pride in the Olympics lend a deeper layer to this incident, raising questions about team dynamics and personal conflicts in high-performance sports settings.