TOMMASO GIACOMEL has undergone heart surgery following his withdrawal from the Winter Olympics.
The Italian biathlete was expected to compete for glory in the 15km mass start event but pulled out mid-race due to breathing problems.
Tommaso Giacomel has undergone heart surgeryCredit: http://www.instagram.com/tommy_giacomel/?hl=en
He collapsed during the 15km mass start eventCredit: Getty
Giacomel, 25, collapsed during the race, forcing him to retire from the event.
This was despite him leading at the halfway mark in Anterselva after two double-zero trips to the shooting ranges.
He completed a number of tests at a hospital in Milan which discovered “an electrical conduction anomaly” in one of his heart atria.
The mixed-relay silver medallist underwent minor ablation surgery, which was successful.
Giacomel shared a health update ahead of the operation on his social media account.
He wrote on Instagram: “Right after the second prone shooting, my body somehow stopped functioning normally and I was really struggling to breathe and move, so I had to stop.
“It was the worst feeling I’ve ever had.
“I tried to ski really slowly at the start of the third lap, but my body wouldn’t let me.”
FISI’s statement said Giacomel would be discharged on Thursday and would undergo further checks in two weeks.
If he passes those, he will be allowed to return to regular training.
The recovery schedule means Giacomel will not participate in the next stage of the World Cup, from March 5-8 in Kontiolahti, Finland.
He is unlikely to race the following weekend in Otepaa, Estonia, or in the season finale in Oslo on March 19-22.
Giacomel, winner of four individual World Cup races this season.
He is also second in the overall standings, 37 points behind the leader, Frenchman Eric Perrot.
USA finished with 12 golds and 33 medals overall – behind only Norway on both counts
Fans have sent in plenty of messages wishing him well on his recovery.
One posted: “Get well soon Tommy.”
A second wrote: “I wish you good health and a speedy recovery.”
A third commented: “Sending healing vibes your way! Tommy.”
A fourth said: “Good health to you, Tommy, take care of yourself.”
Another added: “Forza Tommy, see you soon in good health, that’s the most important thing.”
Italy still had a successful Games as they won ten gold medals and finished third in the table.