The Swedish women's long-distance skiers are a success.
The start of this year's season has been no exception. Victories and podiums have followed. But still, the skiers don't want to call themselves stars.
I really don't think so. I don't like the idea of being a long-distance star, I don't see myself as such, says Moa Ilar.
“Take responsibility”
However, she emphasizes the importance of understanding the elements of being an elite athlete at the highest level.
I understand that I am someone's idol and that there may be children watching. I think that is important to protect. We all have to be aware that we are someone's role model. You can't behave however you want, she says.
Six-time World Championship gold medalist Ebba Andersson does not see herself as a star either, but believes that one should, of course, be a good role model.
"That thought rarely occurs to me. To be honest, I don't really know how I feel about it," she says, continuing:
It's about common sense. It should be in human nature to act as well as possible.
“Should I avoid”
Just like Moa Ilar, Jonna Sundling believes that one should feel a great responsibility in being the face of one's sport.
Absolutely. There are certain things I definitely wouldn't do in front of the camera. Destroying the material that you are sponsored by, for example. Maybe shouting certain things. I would avoid that, says Olympic gold medalist Sundling.
The cross-country skiers themselves think they are good role models.
"I think it's pretty nice with us. I'm probably not that mean anyway. In our ranks, we probably show more disappointment than anger when we get emotional, for example," says Frida Karlsson.
The Tour de Ski starts in Toblach, Italy, on Sunday. During the tour, the skiers will also compete on the Olympic slopes in Val di Fiemme.
December 28: Sprint, freestyle, qualifying and final, women and men.
December 29: 10 km, classic, individual start, men and women.
December 31: 5 km, freestyle, mass start, men and women.
January 1: 20 km, classic, pursuit start, men and women.
January 3: Sprint, classic, qualifying and final, women and men.
January 4: 10 km, freestyle, mass start, men and women.
