Norwegian biathlete Sturla Holm Laegreid confessed on live television to cheating on his girlfriend moments after winning bronze in the Winter Olympics.
The 28-year-old, who won his first individual Olympic medal in the 20km individual biathlon at Milan-Cortina, admitted he had an affair three months ago and called it my biggest mistake.
It's been the worst week of my life since informing his girlfriend of six months about the affair, Laegreid said.
There's someone I wanted to share it with who might not be watching, he told NRK, Norway's state broadcaster.
Six months ago, I met the love of my life - the most beautiful and kindest person in the world. Three months ago, I made my biggest mistake and cheated on her.
I had the gold medal in life, and I am sure there are many people who will see things differently, but I only have eyes for her. Sport has come second these last few days. Yes, I wish I could share this with her.
He later told Norwegian newspaper VG that his only way to remedy the situation was to be transparent, stating: I have nothing to lose.
Laegreid finished third in the biathlon behind fellow Norwegian Johan-Olav Botn and Eric Perrot of France, marking his second Olympic medal after winning gold in the relay at the 2022 Games. During the press conference afterward, he expressed concern about overshadowing his fellow competitors due to his admission and hoped it would not detract from their achievements.
Botn dedicated his win to his late teammate, Sivert Guttorm Bakken, evoking an emotional response highlighting the bond among athletes.
Laegreid's honesty in addressing his personal challenges amidst a major sporting achievement has resonated with many, prompting conversations about personal integrity in the spotlight and the impact of fame on athletes’ lives.
The 28-year-old, who won his first individual Olympic medal in the 20km individual biathlon at Milan-Cortina, admitted he had an affair three months ago and called it my biggest mistake.
It's been the worst week of my life since informing his girlfriend of six months about the affair, Laegreid said.
There's someone I wanted to share it with who might not be watching, he told NRK, Norway's state broadcaster.
Six months ago, I met the love of my life - the most beautiful and kindest person in the world. Three months ago, I made my biggest mistake and cheated on her.
I had the gold medal in life, and I am sure there are many people who will see things differently, but I only have eyes for her. Sport has come second these last few days. Yes, I wish I could share this with her.
He later told Norwegian newspaper VG that his only way to remedy the situation was to be transparent, stating: I have nothing to lose.
Laegreid finished third in the biathlon behind fellow Norwegian Johan-Olav Botn and Eric Perrot of France, marking his second Olympic medal after winning gold in the relay at the 2022 Games. During the press conference afterward, he expressed concern about overshadowing his fellow competitors due to his admission and hoped it would not detract from their achievements.
Botn dedicated his win to his late teammate, Sivert Guttorm Bakken, evoking an emotional response highlighting the bond among athletes.
Laegreid's honesty in addressing his personal challenges amidst a major sporting achievement has resonated with many, prompting conversations about personal integrity in the spotlight and the impact of fame on athletes’ lives.
