Milan-Cortina, Italy – In a stunning revelation that’s sparking conversation about the future of athletic training, Ukrainian biathlete Maksym Murashkovskyi has credited artificial intelligence, specifically ChatGPT, with playing a pivotal role in his silver medal performance at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Paralympic Games. The 25-year-old visually impaired athlete secured the silver in the men’s biathlon event on Sunday, but it was his post-race acknowledgement of ChatGPT’s assistance that quickly became a major talking point.
Murashkovskyi, who as well earned a bronze medal at the 2023 World Championships, explained that he began working with the AI chatbot six months ago, integrating it into nearly every facet of his preparation. “For the past six months, I have been training with ChatGPT,” he said, as reported by multiple outlets including Fox News and the BBC. “It was not only tactics. It was half of my training plan, motivation, etcetera. So it was a huge volume of all of my training.”
The athlete detailed how ChatGPT functioned as more than just a data analysis tool. He utilized the platform as a virtual coach, psychologist, and even a medical resource. “I used it as a psychologist, coach and, sometimes, as a doctor,” Murashkovskyi stated. This innovative approach to training helped him achieve a remarkable 20/20 in shooting during the biathlon, ultimately leading to his silver medal finish, narrowly behind China’s Dang Hesong.
The use of AI in sports is not entirely modern, but Murashkovskyi’s comprehensive integration of ChatGPT into his training regimen represents a significant step forward. He believes this technology has the potential to reshape how athletes prepare for competition. “I can give great credit to ChatGPT. I believe in it, We see a revolutionary technology,” he added.
However, Murashkovskyi doesn’t foresee AI completely replacing human coaches anytime soon. He estimates that while a full takeover is unlikely within the next five to ten years, AI will undoubtedly become an increasingly integral part of the coaching process. “Not completely for five to 10 years. But part of it, definitely,” he said.
This isn’t the first success Murashkovskyi has experienced while utilizing ChatGPT. He also achieved success at the Para Biathlon World Cup earlier this year, including a gold medal, further solidifying his belief in the power of AI-assisted training. His success story is already prompting discussion about the ethical implications and potential benefits of incorporating AI into elite sports.
The Ukrainian athlete’s reliance on ChatGPT also comes against the backdrop of the ongoing conflict involving his home country. While acknowledging the potential for misuse of AI – particularly in military applications – Murashkovskyi emphasized the positive applications of the technology. He noted that, like any powerful tool, AI can be used for both constructive and destructive purposes, comparing it to fields like chemistry, and biology.
“Unfortunately, we observe it used for military and nefarious purposes,” Murashkovskyi said. “But it’s like in chemistry or biology: some can use it for good, others for bad. Personally, I use it for learning, languages, some of my projects, in chemistry, in biology and in sport.”
Ukraine has been performing strongly at the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympics, currently ranking second in the medal table with ten medals, two more than France. Murashkovskyi’s silver medal adds to the nation’s impressive showing, and his innovative approach to training is inspiring athletes and coaches alike to explore the potential of artificial intelligence.
Murashkovskyi, guided by Vitaliy Trush, still has three opportunities to add to Ukraine’s medal count at the Games. His story serves as a compelling example of how technology is evolving the landscape of competitive sports, and how athletes are embracing new tools to push the boundaries of human performance.
What’s Next: Murashkovskyi will continue to compete at the Milan-Cortina Winter Paralympics, with his next event scheduled for [Date to be confirmed – check official Paralympics schedule]. Fans can follow his progress and the latest updates from the Games on the official Paralympic website: [https://www.paralympic.org/](https://www.paralympic.org/)
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