Just months after the dramatic Olympic collapse, the 26-year-old Italian biathlon star is sidelined once again.

First, Tommaso Giacomel collapsed at the worst possible moment during the Olympics. Now, his nightmare year has taken another brutal turn.

During the Olympics in Milano-Cortina this winter, Tommaso Giacomel had to withdraw mid-race in the mass start. The Italian biathlon star was leading and appeared to be having the race of his life – on the biggest stage, in front of tens of thousands of ecstatic home fans. Then he experienced acute breathing problems and disappeared into the woods. 

“The worst feeling I’ve ever experienced in my life so far. A lot is going through my head right now… frustration, anger, disappointment… It’s crushing. It’s crushing to have to stop, but there was nothing I could do against my own body today,“ Giacomel said on his Instagram about his Olympic exit.

The collapse during the Olympics was found to be due to heart problems. The 26-year-old had to undergo surgery and missed the rest of the season. 

“This was absolutely not the ending to the Games that I had hoped for, but I will never give up. Four years go quickly, and I will try again in France (in 2030).”

Also Read: Olympic bid ends with heart procedure

Another setback

Giacomel had just barely returned to full training when misfortune struck again. Just before the weekend, during the national team’s first training camp of the season, disaster struck once more.

“2026 keeps delivering. Slipped on some moss during training today and dislocated my left shoulder. Tired of this sh*t,” the Italian reported on social media.

Now, Tommaso Giacomel is once again sidelined indefinitely. 

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