When Johan Ekberg crossed the finish line as winner in Gällivare last weekend, it was a resounding victory and the starting shot for attention he had never received before.
"You might not be very happy to be the center of attention. But everyone likes a little attention," he says.
Until now, the 25-year-old has been relatively unknown to the general skiing public. That's why his journey from hidden talent to hot candidate in the national team discussions has become one of the most talked-about topics ahead of the weekend in Ruka.
“I had a feeling”
I've had a really good summer of training, so I had a feeling I could get good results and that it could be a hit. It was really fun.
Ekberg mentions that he really got things right in training.
Above all, I've been able to do a larger training volume. I've been able to have a constant load the whole time and my body has responded well to it.
He further explains how he has noticed the development.
When I've been roller skiing on a treadmill, I've noticed that I can go faster and on steeper slopes. If you can do that at a high level, you know you have a higher capacity.
This isn't the first time Ekberg has competed in a World Cup competition. But it's the first time he's really set a goal to improve his time.
"More screen time"
The goal is to improve my personal best in the World Cup. I don't even remember what it is, but it's nothing to write home about right now. It's going to be much better.
The victory hasn't changed his attitude. Ekberg wants to keep his feet on the ground.
I don't want to drift away. It just hinders performance. It doesn't help. In the end, you'll go faster if you're just here and now.
Did you get a lot of messages after the success last time?
The mobile phone got a little loose, definitely, there were more people who were happy for you. More screen time than usual, says Ekberg.
Ekberg will compete on Sunday in the 20 km freestyle, mass start.
