Polish speed skater Kamila Sellier has broken her silence after a terrifying accident at the Winter Olympics left her eye slashed by a rival's blade.
The 1500m short track competitor underwent emergency facial surgery and shared an update from her hospital bed.
The incident occurred during the women's 1500m short track race at the Milano Ice Skating Arena.
Sellier collided with 15-time Olympic medalist Arianna Fontana of Italy and Team USA’s Kristen Santos-Griswold. She was stretchered off the ice with her face covered in blood, in a scene broadcast live on television.
The frightening crash prompted immediate concern from fans and fellow athletes, with fears that Sellier might have suffered permanent vision damage.
Emergency surgery and health update
Following the accident, Sellier was rushed to hospital for emergency facial surgery. Poland's Olympic Committee president Konrad Niedzwiecki confirmed the procedure, stating that the damaged bone was repaired and everything was cleaned.
Sellier reportedly woke up this morning with significant swelling and little sleep, but crucially, she appears to have avoided the worst-case scenario.
Sellier breaks silence
From her hospital bed, Sellier shared a selfie and a message on social media:
“I know that one day I’ll look at this picture and remember that I'm stronger than I ever believed. Thank you for all your words of support, just wanted to let you know that I'm doing quite okay.”
The post showed the left side of her face, with the injury on the right side cropped out, emphasizing her resilience and gratitude for support.
The accident has sparked discussions about safety in short track speed skating, particularly regarding the risks posed by sharp blades during high-speed collisions.
Athletes, fans, and Olympic officials are closely monitoring Sellier’s recovery, while the competition continues amid heightened concern for on-ice safety.
