Olympic Champion Jordan Stolz Admits to Nerves Despite Winning Two Gold Medals

Olympic Champion Jordan Stolz Admits to Nerves Despite Winning Two Gold Medals

Jordan Stolz, the remarkable speed skating athlete from Wisconsin, has captured the spotlight at the Milan Cortina Games. Despite his impressive performance, Stolz has recently shared that he does experience nerves, especially during significant competitions like the Olympics.

Historic Achievements at Milan Cortina Games

Stolz is a two-time Olympic gold medalist, having won gold in both the 500 meters and 1,000 meters events. He is only the second male athlete in history, after Eric Heiden in 1980, to achieve this double at a single Winter Olympics.

Noteworthy Performances

  • 500 meters event: Stolz finished first, showcasing exceptional skill and a strong start.
  • 1,000 meters event: His victory alleviated the pressure for the subsequent race.
  • Unbeaten season: Stolz has maintained an unbeaten streak in the 1,000 meters this season and holds the world record.
  • World Cup success: He claimed five victories in nine World Cup 500-meter races this season.

Emotional Insights

Despite his calm demeanor, Stolz admits to feeling nervous before his first Olympic race in the 1,000 meters. He reflects on the significance of the event, stating, “You’ve waited four years to get here, and now you only have one chance to win.” This pressure was evident before competing, as even watching others race contributed to his anxiety.

However, after securing his initial gold, Stolz felt a sense of relief going into the 500 meters. “I felt a lot less pressure today, just because I got the first one out of the way,” he explained.

What Sets Stolz Apart

Stolz’s coach, Bob Corby, has noted his athlete’s unique approach to competition. Corby recounted an instance where Stolz was so calm before his race that he was resting in the athletes’ lounge minutes before competing. “That’s just normal behavior for him,” Corby commented.

Family Perspective

Jordan’s father, Dirk Stolz, also highlighted his son’s composure. After a late-night phone call before the races, he sensed his son’s confidence, remarking, “He’s pretty relaxed.” Dirk emphasized the importance of treating each race as just another competition, regardless of the external pressure.

Looking Forward

Stolz is set to compete in the 1,500 meters event next. His experience, confidence, and resilience are expected to shine through as he continues to pursue excellence on the ice.

For more updates and insights on speed skating and the Winter Olympics, visit Filmogaz.com.