Kerttu Niskanen makes history with podium finish: Coach laments bad luck – impressive gesture from competitor

Kerttu Niskanen made history by securing her first podium finish in a freestyle competition at the World Cup, finishing third in the 20-kilometer race in Toblach. Niskanen's achievement marked a significant milestone, as she had never placed in the top three before in a freestyle event. The race was dominated by Norwegians Astrid Öyre Slind and Therese Johaug, who took the first and second spots, respectively. Niskanen's coach, Teemu Pasanen, expressed disappointment over her circumstances during the race, as she battled alone without the benefit of drafting. Despite this, Niskanen managed to cut her deficit to top competitor Jessie Diggins in the overall Tour standings.