https://www.svt.se/kultur/mans-zelmerlow-infor-melodifestivalens-final-europa-hatar-sverige

Translation:

It's no secret that Måns is the big favourite before saturdays Melodifestivalen final. The star feels that he has become a target for malicious Eurovision fans outside Sweden's borders.

- There has been a lot, a lot of hate.

With a victory (Heroes, 2015), a hosting stint (2016) and countless minor guest appearances, Måns Zelmerlöw is a superstar in the Eurovision context. But it's stressful that everyone is now counting on another success, he says.

- The pressure and expectations that have existed has led to a huge amount of nervousness. No matter what I do, I can't live up to the expectations after Heroes.

Envy from Europe

Sweden's seven victories are, together with Ireland, the most in the history of the competition. The last fifteen years include three victories and two podium finishes.

But Eurovision fans in other countries seem to have a hard time rejoicing in the blue-yellow successes.

As the pre-determined favorite, Måns Zelmerlöw has to accept his fair share of envy, he says. After the semi-final performance with Revolution, hatred has poured in from the outside world.

– I think: the better I do, the more hatred there will be.