Norwegian cross-country skiing sensation Johannes Høsflot Klæbo, known as “King Klæbo,” continues to dominate the sport. The 29-year-old athlete recently secured his fifth gold medal at the Milano-Cortina Olympics in the men’s team sprint event. This victory aligns him with U.S. long-track speed skater Eric Heiden, who achieved the same milestone at the 1980 Lake Placid Games.
Klæbo’s Olympic Record
With this latest win, Klæbo has reached a total of ten Olympic gold medals. He ranks among the highest Olympic gold medalists, trailing only behind U.S. swimmer Michael Phelps, who holds 23 golds. Remarkably, Klæbo has accomplished this feat in just three Olympic appearances.
- Gold Medals at Milano-Cortina: 5
- Total Olympic Gold Medals: 10
- Previous Record Holder: Eric Heiden (1980)
- Overall Olympic Gold Leaders: Michael Phelps (23)
Norway’s Performance
Klæbo’s victories contribute significantly to Norway’s medal success in these Winter Games, accounting for one-third of the nation’s gold prizes. His exceptional performance has kept Norway at the forefront of the medal standings. Additionally, Klæbo leads the World Cup standings, showcasing his consistent excellence in the sport.
The Klæbo Technique
Fans and competitors alike have taken notice of Klæbo’s unique racing style. He gained further recognition during a viral moment in the men’s classic sprint final, where he reached an impressive average speed of 17 km/h on a seven percent gradient. This technique, referred to as the “Klæbo run,” features elevated knee positioning and less gliding, allowing him to sprint powerfully at the end of challenging races.
Early Journey to Success
Despite his current status, Klæbo’s rise to prominence was not straightforward. His former coach, Rune Sandøy, noted that Klæbo was once an “average Joe” during his teenage years in Trondheim, Norway. However, his determination and tireless effort propelled him to success, as he described in a blog post reflecting on his first national sprint event at age 17.
“I ended the qualification with the second best time, surprising myself and others,” Klæbo wrote. This transformation from an unknown skier ranked 82nd nationally to an Olympic champion highlights his dedication and hard work.
Family Legacy
Klæbo attributes much of his success to his grandfather, who has coached him since he was 15. His grandfather was present during Klæbo’s gold medal win at the Tesero Cross-Country Skiing Stadium, a moment Klæbo described as “unbelievable” considering their years of collaboration.
As the Milano-Cortina Olympics draw to a close, Klæbo is set to compete in the men’s 50-kilometre mass start classic event on Saturday. His achievements continue to inspire fans and aspiring athletes worldwide.
