Sturla Holm Lægreid: The Viral Face of ‘Pick Me’ in Norway

Norwegian biathlete's grovelling apology to the 'love of his life' on national television has gone viral

Norwegian biathlete Sturla Holm Lægreid should be making headlines for his impressive medal haul at this year’s Winter Olympics, but has instead attracted attention after admitting to cheating on “the love of his life” on national television. The tearful interview, given moments after he secured bronze in the men’s 20km biathlon, has since gone viral.

“He has officially become the face of ‘pick me’ in Norway,” one Norwegian fan told The Saint, struggling to hide her second-hand embarrassment. It is certainly not a moment anyone associated with the Norwegian team will want to remember.

Already a gold medallist after winning the men’s biathlon relay in 2022, Lægreid has collected four more medals at this year’s Games. However, his 2026 Olympics will likely be overshadowed by his on-screen behaviour.

Rather than evoking sympathy, Lægreid’s emotional meltdown has largely generated disdain, particularly among fellow Norwegians. Criticism has spread across in the media, with journalists accusing him of “social suicide” in a vain attempt to revive his relationship. Others have praised him for “doing what most people wouldn’t dream of attempting.” Whatever your view, the scandal has spread like wildfire. 

The real victim in all of this was the event’s gold medallist, Johan-Olav Botn, whose emotional press conference was overshadowed by the behaviour of his compatriot. The 26-year-old was overcome as he dedicated his victory to fellow countryman and former competitor Sivert Guttorm Bakken, whom he had found dead in his hotel room a few months before the Games.

Botn etched his name into the record books with his first Olympic biathlon title, adding to Norway’s legacy as the most successful nation in Winter Games history. An athlete’s career is short, and many never reach an Olympics, let alone win a medal. Botn, however, achieved the pinnacle of sporting success by standing on top of the podium.

The significance of this achievement should not be overlooked because of another man’s actions. Ultimately, professional sport is about winning, so the focus should remain on success rather than scandal.

Photo taken from Wikimedia Commons