The 27-year-old's decision not to compete in the Olympics does not come as a surprise to Swedish ski jumper Astrid Norstedt.

- Many saw it coming anyway, those who know her a little.

But it is really a big decision and a strong decision, says the 20-year-old to SVT Sport.

- It was sad, but I think she has made a wise decision that she considered very well.

"Difficult subject"

Maren Lundby believes that extreme demands are placed on ski jumping and that weight is one of them.

She tells in an emotional interview with NRK that she chooses to stand over the Olympics to take care of herself and not lose weight in an unhealthy way.

- It is a difficult topic to talk about, I think it was sensible words that Maren said.

It makes sense that you want to get in competition form in a sensible way, it sends out good signals.

- There are extreme demands in all sports, on different things.

It is clear that weight plays a role in a sport such as ski jumping.

But we have BMI rules that regulate that it should not provide benefits.

"Is a prerequisite"

Is this something you talk about in the Swedish national team, with leaders and other jumpers?

- Yes, me and my coach are very careful to feel good mentally, and that is a prerequisite for performance.

When SVT Sport gets hold of Astrid Norstedt, she is on her way to Slovenia for another training camp.

The first competition of the season will be the Fis Cup in Falun the second weekend in November.

And the big goal is of course the Olympics in Beijing.

- First and foremost, you have to take your time.

I have had a small uphill this summer.

But it's starting to pick up, so I'm still optimistic.

CLIP: 60 seconds: Maren Lundby's Olympic message and the criticism from Emil Iversen

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Maren Lundby received an apology from Emil Iversen.

Photo: NRK