Zebastian Modin's dramatic bronze thriller: "I can finally breathe out"

It was on the final straight that everything came to a head. In one of the most nerve-shredding sprints I've witnessed in para cross-country skiing, Zebastian Modin squeezed the very last drops of energy from an already totally exhausted body. His guide, his voice a continuous roar, steered him through the flurry of snow and over the line. The clock stopped at a time that would prove just enough for a podium place – but by a mere fraction of a second.

A photo finish like no other

Those of us following the race live were holding our breath. Zebastian Modin was perfectly positioned throughout the race, but in the final downhill section he unexpectedly lost a few metres to the leaders. For a brief period, it looked bleak. But just when you thought his energy was spent, the experienced 30-year-old found another gear. His final kick on the skis was, quite simply, magical. The photo finish had to decide it, and only then could the joy erupt. Zebastian Modin had done it again – securing a coveted Paralympics bronze for Sweden.

The relief at the finish line

After the race, once his pulse was finally allowed to settle, a completely different side of the champion emerged. The tension and absolute focus were gone. In their place came relief, joy and an immense pride in what he had just achieved. When asked in the mixed zone what had gone through his head the moment he crossed the line, he beamed. "I can finally breathe out now," he told the reporters on site. That very feeling – after months of hard training and a results-focused daily life, to finally let all those emotions out – is probably something every athlete can relate to.

For his partner, watching the medal race from the stands, it was no less nerve-wracking. Seeing the person you care about most battle it out in such an insane photo finish must be a trial in itself. But once the bronze was secured, it was just like for Zebastian: a collective exhale and a huge, shared outburst of joy.

Three key factors that decided Zebastian Modin's race

• The start: He got a flying start and was able to immediately establish himself in the lead group, which was absolutely crucial to avoid skiing in others' tracks.
• The guide's role: The communication between Zebastian Modin and his guide was flawless. In the toughest sections, it was the guidance that kept him in contention.
• The finish: Despite his legs screaming in agony, he refused to give up. The final stretch battle was a pure act of will, and it ultimately decided who would get to step onto the podium.

A legacy that continues to grow

With this bronze, Zebastian Modin writes another chapter in his impressive list of achievements. Over the years, he has shown a unique ability to perform when it truly counts, on the very biggest stages. It's no coincidence that he now holds the title of Paralympic medallist – once again. This is an athlete who never ceases to impress, and whose fighting spirit and humility inspire far beyond the ski tracks. For us Swedish sports fans, it's an absolute pleasure to follow his journey, and I, like so many others, am already looking forward to the next chance to cheer him on.