For decades, one name reigned supreme when discussions about cycling’s greatest athlete arose: Eddy Merckx. The Belgian legend, often simply dubbed “The Cannibal,” was renowned for his insatiable hunger to win, his dominance across all terrains, and his relentless competitiveness. Many believed that Merckx’s legacy was untouchable, a golden standard that would never again be truly rivaled.
However, in the modern era, a new force has emerged — one with a style, flair, and dominance eerily reminiscent of the legendary Merckx. That force is Slovenia’s Tadej Pogačar.
And now, Merckx himself has weighed in on the brewing G.O.A.T (Greatest of All Time) debate, offering high praise for the 25-year-old Slovenian prodigy. Speaking candidly in an interview this week, Merckx admitted:
“Tadej reminds me a lot of myself. His ability to attack whenever he wants, to dominate every type of race — it’s rare. Very rare. If he stays on this path, people will speak of him in the same breath as they speak of me.”
The Weight of Merckx’s Praise
For fans and analysts alike, these words were seismic. Eddy Merckx is not known for casually handing out compliments. His career boasts 525 professional victories, five Tour de France titles, and victories across all five Monuments — achievements that have stood the test of time.
To have Merckx suggest that Pogačar mirrors his own greatness is not only the highest form of praise but also a signal that cycling may indeed be witnessing history in the making.
“Tadej rides with instinct and courage,” Merckx continued. “He doesn’t wait for things to happen. He makes them happen. That’s what separates the good riders from the legends.”
Pogačar’s Rapid Rise
Since bursting onto the professional scene, Pogačar’s career trajectory has been meteoric. Winning the Tour de France at just 21 years old in 2020, he followed it up with another title in 2021, and a near-miss podium in 2022 that only further cemented his hunger and resilience.
But it’s not just about grand tours. Pogačar has shown a remarkable ability to compete — and win — in one-day classics, hilly races, and even tough cobbled classics where traditionally, pure climbers struggle.
This versatility has been a hallmark comparison to Merckx himself, who could dominate on mountain climbs, sprint finishes, and grueling time trials alike.
In 2024 alone, Pogačar has secured victories at the Tour of Flanders, Liège-Bastogne-Liège, and multiple stages at Paris-Nice. His consistency across all formats of the sport makes him a once-in-a-generation talent.
The Pressure of Greatness
Despite the flattering comparisons, Pogačar himself has remained remarkably humble. When asked about Merckx’s recent comments, the Slovenian star responded:
“It’s incredible to hear that from someone like Eddy Merckx. But I still believe I have so much to learn. I just love racing. I don’t think about records or titles. I just want to enjoy what I do.”
This down-to-earth mentality has endeared him even more to fans worldwide, making his success feel not just inevitable but also inspirational.
Still, with such comparisons comes tremendous pressure. Living up to the “next Merckx” label is no small feat. For every emerging prodigy heralded as “the next big thing,” history has shown that few actually manage to fulfill the weight of expectation.
Pogačar, however, appears to be built differently — mentally as well as physically.
A New Era for Cycling?
Merckx’s praise raises an intriguing question: is cycling entering a new golden era?
With Pogačar leading the charge, and rivals such as Jonas Vingegaard, Remco Evenepoel, and Mathieu van der Poel pushing him to even greater heights, the sport seems richer and more competitive than it has been in decades.
Former pros like Chris Froome and Alberto Contador have lauded this period as “the most exciting time to be a cycling fan.”
As for Pogačar, he continues to break new ground, constantly redefining what is possible on two wheels.
G.O.A.T Debate: Numbers vs. Impact
While records matter, the G.O.A.T debate often transcends pure statistics. It’s about impact, cultural significance, and the ability to inspire.
Merckx dominated an era almost single-handedly. Pogačar, meanwhile, is doing so in an era of unprecedented specialization, training sophistication, and competitive depth.
Could he surpass Merckx’s records? Possibly. But even if he doesn’t, his ability to thrill, inspire, and elevate the sport might be enough to tip the scales in his favor in the eyes of many.
What Lies Ahead
Looking forward, Pogačar has already hinted that he will target a rare double attempt in 2025 — the Giro d’Italia and Tour de France. Should he pull off victories in both, his place in history would be further solidified.
Additionally, with the Olympics around the corner, the prospect of Pogačar claiming Olympic gold — just as Merckx once did at the amateur level — would be another striking parallel.
Final Thoughts
Hearing Eddy Merckx endorse Tadej Pogačar as a mirror image of his own greatness is not merely flattery; it’s an acknowledgment that a new chapter in cycling’s rich history is being written before our eyes.
Pogačar is not just chasing history. He’s creating it.
And if his career continues on its current trajectory, the question may no longer be whether he reminds us of Merckx — but whether future generations will one day say of emerging talents, “He reminds me of Pogačar.”
One thing is certain: the G.O.A.T conversation just got a lot more interesting.
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