Skier Nina O’Brien dragged off snow on stretcher after horror crash at Beijing Winter Olympics with viewers left worried
US skier Nina O’Brien suffered a nasty crash just seconds before crossing the finish line at the Winter Olympics.
O’Brien appeared to collide with the penultimate gate and crashed over the finish line, which left her needing assistance.
The American was treated by at least four medics and then carried off on a stretcher as the race was temporarily halted.
US Ski & Snowboard Team tweeted: "Nina O’Brien crashed into the finish but she is alert and responsive."
Viewers were left horrified and sent their well-wishes to O'Brien.
One said: "Yikes that was a brutal crash.. Sending lots of love and prayers to Nina O'Brien."
Another said: "The crash that just happened in the women’s slalom was absolutely horrible. Hoping Nina O’Brien is okay."
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One added: "That crash by Nina O’Brien was brutal."
Another added: "Thoughts and prayers are with Nina O’Brien after that horrible crash at the end of her run. Hope she is okay."
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Her rival racers, including then-leader Lara Gut-Behrami, were visibly shocked following O’Brien's crash.
Eurosport's commentator said: “That is an awful crash.
"It was a risky performance from the get-go, there is no question the American’s bravery must be commended. But it just went wrong two from home."
Two-time Olympic gold medal alpine skier Mikaela Shiffrin wrote on online: “We are so heartbroken for Nina.
"She showed so much heart and fire in her skiing today, and it all got shredded to pieces on the final turn.
"This sport… this sport is SO damn hard. It’s brutal, and it hurts- far more often than it ever feels good.”
