The journey of love and sport often intertwines in unexpected ways, and for Olympic luge athletes Emily Sweeney of the United States and Dominik Fischnaller of Italy, their long-distance relationship has been a testament to perseverance and commitment. After dating for nearly 15 years, the couple has finally tied the knot, marking a significant milestone in their love story as they prepare to compete in the upcoming Winter Olympics in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. Long-distance relationships can be challenging, particularly for athletes whose schedules are dictated by rigorous training and competition. For Emily and Dominik, who began dating as teenagers, the pressures of their respective sports often led them to question their relationship. "Are we worth it?" was a recurring theme for the couple, who navigated the complexities of their careers while striving to maintain their bond. Yet, every time they asked each other this question, the answer was always a resounding "Yes," affirming their commitment to one another. The couple’s wedding last year was a whirlwind affair, taking just nine days to plan after receiving approval to marry in Italy. Emily described the day as "pretty perfect," and Dominik echoed her sentiments, reflecting on how he never thought he would feel so satisfied with their wedding. The couple has settled into their new life in Italy, where they have effectively rebuilt Dominik’s childhood home, signifying a new chapter in their lives together. As they prepare for the Winter Olympics, where they will represent their respective countries, the excitement and anticipation are palpable. Dominik is set to compete in his fourth Olympic Games, coming off a bronze medal performance in men's singles luge at the last Olympics. Emily will be participating in her third Games, making this a particularly meaningful event for both athletes. Dominik expressed his desire to embrace the Olympic experience more fully this time around, saying, "I want to enjoy this more than I did in other Olympics. I didn’t really experience the atmosphere or anything. I hope this will be different for me this time, and Emily is for sure a big part of that." The Winter Olympics have always been a gathering of not just athletes but also families, and this year is no different. Numerous couples are competing together, bringing a unique dynamic to the Games. For example, American figure skaters Madison Chock and Evan Bates, who married recently, are favorites for the ice dancing gold. Meanwhile, in the luge world, Latvia’s team features the married couple Martins Bots and Elina Bota, who both compete as singles sliders. These relationships add a layer of camaraderie and support that enriches the Olympic experience for many. Emily and Dominik's relationship exemplifies the challenges faced by athletes in long-distance romances. Their schedule allows them to see each other during the luge World Cup tour, which spans Europe, North America, and Asia. Despite the challenges, their bond has only strengthened over the years. As they approach their Olympic debuts, they are not only competing for medals but also for the chance to share the experience with one another, a sentiment echoed by other couples in the Games. The couple has also discussed the possibility of starting a family in the near future, although the timing is uncertain given their athletic careers. With both athletes nearing the end of their competitive journeys, they find themselves contemplating life after the Olympics. "It just feels like we’re setting up a future instead of just living in the present," Emily remarked, highlighting the excitement of their new life together. Despite the pressures of competition, both athletes have proven their resilience. Emily has faced significant challenges, including a severe injury at the 2018 Pyeongchang Olympics, where she broke her neck and back. The aftermath of that incident continues to affect her, but she has shown remarkable strength in her recovery, bolstered by Dominik’s unwavering support: "I tell her she can’t get hurt because I feel the pain even 10,000 times more than she feels her own pain," he said, reflecting the deep care they have for one another. As the Winter Olympics approach, both Emily and Dominik prepare to support each other on the world stage. They will be watching each other closely, filled with hope that their hard work and dedication will culminate in a triumphant moment on the medal stand. Regardless of the outcomes, their relationship stands as a testament to the power of love, commitment, and resilience in the face of adversity. "We’re here. We’re happy, and we’re having a good life," Dominik concluded, encapsulating the essence of their journey together as they embark on this new chapter at the Olympics.