Figure skater Anita Östlund was on her way to the absolute world elite. But then she disappeared. For many years she was subjected to violence. In 2017, 16-year-old figure skater Anita Östlund became Swedish champion. The following year, she participated in the European Championships in Moscow and managed to get sixth place in the short program, which also led to an Olympic place. Only 17 years old, she was allowed to represent Sweden at the games in South Korea – and finished in 28th place. But then she disappeared from the competition scene, and few knew why. Recently, she chose to tell what really happened. In an interview with Radiosporten, she told about being abused, which caused her to pause her career in order to heal and recover. – Last summer we ended up in sheltered accommodation for a few months. I went to a counselor, I felt so bad that I needed help. Then there was a report to social welfare, because there were younger children involved, says Anita Östlund. Living with violence for many years normalizes it. – When I came to the realization that the violence was wrong, it was after the Olympics. I had great people around me, especially my coaches, who supported me for years. They were the ones who saw that something was wrong, and who helped me so incredibly much. Friends related to the sport also helped me, says Anita Östlund. Figure skating, friends and coaches have meant a lot to her. – It was like a consolation to come to the ice rink. When I wasn’t feeling well at home, it became like a safe place for me, where I could disconnect from all the trouble. What makes you today have the strength to be able to tell? – First of all, I want above all children, and also adults, who are vulnerable, to dare to tell. The first step is to find someone you trust and can turn to. Don’t wait as long as I did. Do you want to return to figure skating? – I have taken a break from figure skating and competing, to focus on feeling good and studying. We will see what happens. Now the focus is on feeling good, and getting ahead. In the player above: Hear Anita Östlund tell her story Here you can see the entire interview with Anita Östlund
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The star disappeared from the limelight – was subjected to violence
