American figure skater Greta Myers makes her surprising Olympic debut in the 3,000 meters

American skater Greta Myers made an early and unexpected Milan Cortina Olympic Games He debuted on Saturday in the 3,000 meters, finding out about three hours before the start of the race.

Czech Martina Sablikova announced she would not compete in the race, saying it was “the most difficult sporting decision of her life.” Sablikova, who won gold at the 2010 Vancouver Games, said she feels “helpless” and “disappointed” and apologized to everyone.

Myers was scheduled to appear at the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics in the women’s 1,500 meters, as the United States did not qualify any skaters for the women’s long-distance races. However, Myers’ times were fast enough to secure the first alternative quota spot, NBC reported.

The 21-year-old from Minnesota posted on social media Saturday: “HEY! I’m running the 3k today! Pretty unexpected but I’m incredibly grateful to have the opportunity to skate and do my best!! Let’s go!!”

Myers finished Saturday’s race in 20th place with a time of 4:13.46, a long way from medal contention. Italy Francesca Lollobrigidawith an Olympic record time of 3:54.28, won gold, with Norway’s Ragne Wiklund and Canada’s Valeria Maltais completing the podium.

After the race, Myers told NBC’s Lewis Johnson that it was “really crazy” to find out just hours before that he was going to make his Olympic debut.

“When I first heard I was in the 3K, I had just fallen during an effort at top speeds, so I was a little shocked and frustrated by the fall, but after I really processed that I would be running, I just couldn’t believe it,” she said.

Myers added: “When I was walking back to the locker room, I started crying a little… I’ve just been trying to take it all in. My body isn’t really ready to go yet. Our team pursuit race is a week from today, so we’re still training so we can be really strong on the 14th for the qualifying round. I can’t wait to show you everything I’ve got.”

Myers will compete in the women’s 1,500 meters, women’s 5,000 meters and women’s Mass Start.