Olympic skater gives major update after her face was slashed open by opponent in race

The Polish speed skater who suffered a blade to the face in what was a horrific injury at the Winter Olympics has provided an update from hospital.

During Friday's (20 February) quarterfinal of the women’s 1500 meters, Kamila Sellier was caught in the face by USA's Kristen Santos-Griswold’s skate when she slipped on the ice.

14-time Olympic medallist Arianna Fontana of Italy was also brought down, as Santos-Griswold was penalised for attempting an illegal pass that caused the accident.

Once officials spotted blood, the match was paused and the 25-year-old was to receive medical attention from the sidelines.

After getting some stitches, she was stretchered off and taken to hospital. Fontana also received some help from her physiotherapist on her left hip during the break.

A Team Poland official told the BBC that Kamila 'had surgery last night' and that 'she’s in good condition'.

Kamila said she is 'stronger' than she thought (Instagram)

“We’re waiting for further tests today, to check her eye for any signs of damage,” they added.

Taking to Instagram today, Kamila shared a selfie from her hospital bed with the caption: "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."

Fans from around the world commented on Kamila's post, with one person writing: "Oh my word. I am so glad to hear you are okay. That was truly horrific to watch. So glad to hear you post. Stay strong and rest up! Lots of love from UK."

A second penned: "You gave us a good scare. Take care Kamila and we wish you a speedy recovery. You are a strong woman."

The athlete was stretchered off the ice during the quarterfinal of the women’s 1500 meters (Gabriel BOUYS / AFP via Getty Images)

While someone else said: "Great to hear that everyone is okay. We in Brazil were worried about what we saw.

"May God bless you."

Santos-Griswold was disqualified from the race after making the illegal lane pass that contributed to the collision.

Fontana, who also fell, was able to continue after being seen by her physiotherapist, managing to finish second in the quarterfinal and in the semifinal, before going on to make fifth in the final.

Teammate Gabriela Topolska said after the incident: “These aren't common accidents, but they do happen.

“Kamila already has one of them, from a skate on her face. Kamila has a cut in her skin, with stitches.”

Natalia Maliszewska added: “My thoughts are with her. I can’t think of anything else.”