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Olympic Hero: "We've wanted to get into the people's home"

He has tried to keep himself away from social media. Nevertheless, the table tennis fever in Sweden has not passed Kristian Karlsson by. We wanted to get into the people's home – and now we have shown what a fantastic sport table tennis is, says the Olympic Games hero.

» Updated: September 15 2024

» Published: August 10 2024

Olympic Hero: "We've wanted to get into the people's home"
Photo: Henrik Montgomery/TT

This table tennis national team has done great things before.

In 2021, Truls Möregårdh took World Championship silver in singles and at the same championships, Kristian Karlsson and Olympic Games reserve Mattias Falck won the doubles title.

It still wasn't enough to get much attention.

"Never experienced"

But after a few magical weeks in Paris with double Olympic Games silver, table tennis is hot in Sweden again, like in the days of legends J-O Waldner and Jörgen Persson.

This hysteria we have never experienced. It becomes a completely different thing at an Olympic Games, says Kristian Karlsson after the loss against China in the Olympic Games final.

How have you noticed it?

More writings. And more old friends who haven't been heard from in a long time telling that they saw the match. It's not easy to watch World Championship matches that are often broadcast on Youtube. Now it's prime broadcasting time – it's clear that it means a lot.

Posted a "story"

Karlsson has kept a low profile in social media during the Olympic Games.

When we reached the final, I couldn't help but post a "story". Otherwise, it hasn't been much. But now I'll take a look around a bit more and enjoy.

It was Truls Möregårdh who sparked the hysteria when he sensationally became second in the singles tournament and secured Sweden's first Olympic Games medal in table tennis in 24 years.

He believes that the success means a lot for the sport in Sweden.

Already when I reached the final, it was table tennis chaos in Sweden. I understand that it is and am very happy about it, says Möregårdh.

My and the team's performances here are above all expectations. It will be fun to feel it when you get home.

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By TTThis article has been altered and translated by Sweden Herald

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