Winter Olympics 2022: 'I feel like crying' – Natalia Maliszewska heartbroken after falling in 1000m quarters

Polish short track skater Natalia Maliszewska has told Eurosport Poland that she is “ashamed” after being unable to compete to the level she knows she can at the Beijing Winter Olympics. Maliszewska, 26, was one of the favourites for the 500m but was unable to compete after a see-saw saga surrounding a positive Covid-19 test. Ad/> She decided to compete in the 1000m for a chance at a medal even though she was inexperienced at that distance.

/> Beijing 2022'Unbelievable!' — Schulting takes dramatic gold in tense finish to 1000m2 HOURS AGO After making it to the quarter-finals, she found herself at risk of being knocked out so decided to attack in the final stages of her race, only to fall and crash out completely. In an exclusive interview with Eurosport Poland after Maliszewska said she felt «like crying» having been unable to do her best for her country. “I am very sorry,” she began.

“I laughed that I had washed my hair, did my eyelashes, put on a sweatshirt to be in the final. Did not work. Another chance in four years.” 'Unbelievable!' — Schulting takes dramatic gold in tense finish to 1000m Schulting bounces back to retain 1000m title Hwang takes 1500m gold as GB's Treacy comes last in final On her decision to attack she said: “It was the only option that came to my mind to be in the third position, giving a chance to advance with a good time.” “I am ashamed," continued Maliszewska, starting to break down.

“I'm damn proud that I can represent our country, that I have such support. «I have never felt such a ‘back’ behind me. Coming here, I felt great power, awareness of who I am on the run and what I can do.