When Marcus Grate reached Viaplay's interview microphone after the third place in the sprint final in classical style in Italian Val di Fiemme, he knew what would happen.
I'll try to hold it together during the interview, but it won't work. There are so many who have helped me. I've worked long for this, he says at the same time as he starts crying.
Praised by Svahn
Linn Svahn, who had just finished second in the women's final, interrupted her interview with the TV channel when Grate crossed the finish line and rushed up to her national team colleague.
The best thing that has happened today. He is one of my best friends, says Svahn to Viaplay.
Grate himself says that he was far from a talent in his younger years and that he has had to fight for success.
It often feels like you've been hitting from below, but I've had incredible support from both mom, dad, and sister. They have never stopped believing in me. I've been skiing for quite a long time now in the World Cup. It has taken time before you get a reward, but finally it came.
"Means a lot"
During the sprint stage in Toblach earlier during the Tour de Ski, Grate didn't even make it past the qualification. Now it was a podium place and he was sure that his family experienced strong emotions back home on the couch.
I think everyone is sitting there at home crying. I think it means a lot, but even more for me, says Marcus Grate to Viaplay.
The tour's overall leader Johannes Høsflot Klæbo, Norway, won the sprint final ahead of his compatriot Even Northug. The penultimate stage is the skiathlon and will be decided on Saturday.
