Linn Gestblom made a successful comeback in the biathlon World Cup after nearly 22 months, as Sweden finished seventh in the mixed relay in Östersund. The Olympic champion, plagued by shoulder issues, felt relief after the race.
In Östersund, Linn Gestblom competed internationally for the first time in nearly 22 months in the biathlon World Cup mixed relay. The Olympic gold medalist from previous years has battled persistent shoulder problems, a saga that coach Johannes Lukas described as extensive. Before the start, Gestblom expressed 'butterflies-of-joy in the stomach', while the coaching staff breathed a sigh of relief after her long absence.
Lukas, who has followed her closely, said: 'In recent years, I've talked more with Linn than with my wife!' Sweden finished seventh in the relay, and Gestblom performed well in her return. Afterward, she felt only relief: 'Now I can relax a bit. It's possible to come back', said the biathlete. Her performance delights the team and indicates a positive path forward despite the injury history.