For the first time, Zebastian Modin's partner Matilda Berg attended his medal race at the Paralympics in Val di Fiemme. After the bronze in sprint, she expressed relief: “Now I can breathe out”. The family, including parents Anette and Patrik, supports the skier who may be in his last championship.
In Val di Fiemme, the family gathered around Zebastian Modin's performances at the Paralympics. Parents Anette and Patrik have followed their son's career since his debut in Vancouver 2010, except for Peking, and describe the journey as long and transformative. “Back then he was like a child. He has been doing this half his life and now he is going to become a father,” says Anette Modin.
Matilda Berg, who has been with the 31-year-old for almost eight years, was present for the first time. She described the sprint race as intense: “It is incredibly strong to take a medal. This is his fifth Paralympics.” After the bronze in the sprint on Tuesday, she breathed a sigh of relief after a long day and noted that Modin has maintained a high level for many years.
The family sat in the stands near the finish line, surrounded by international crowds. Berg encouraged Modin to enjoy the moments, as it is likely his last championship. The parents praised the final as particularly nerve-wracking: “This was worse than ever,” according to Anette. Dad Patrik called his son “our hero”.
On Wednesday, Modin has another chance in the 10 kilometer classic style with interval start. The sport has developed greatly over the years, and the family appreciates the unique experiences.
