Tadej Pogačar Reflects on His Legacy: “I’ve Won It All—Now It’s Time to Kick Back and Relax”
In the world of professional cycling, few names have resonated as strongly as Tadej Pogačar’s. At just 25 years old, the Slovenian phenom has achieved a level of success that most riders can only dream of. With two Tour de France titles, multiple Monument wins, and an ever-growing list of accolades, Pogačar has established himself as one of the all-time greats in the sport.
Now, after years of relentless competition and groundbreaking achievements, Pogačar has hinted at a new chapter in his life. In a recent interview, he candidly reflected on his accomplishments and shared his thoughts on what comes next. His message was clear: “I’ve won all that needs to be won—now it’s time to kick back and relax.”
A Career of Unmatched Success
Tadej Pogačar’s rise to the top of professional cycling has been nothing short of meteoric. He burst onto the scene in 2019 with a stunning performance in the Vuelta a España, where he won three stages and finished third overall in his Grand Tour debut. From there, his trajectory only soared higher.
In 2020, Pogačar shocked the cycling world by winning the Tour de France in dramatic fashion. His victory on the penultimate stage’s time trial, where he wrested the yellow jersey from compatriot Primož Roglič, became an instant classic in cycling history. At just 21 years old, he became the youngest winner of the Tour in over a century.
The following year, he solidified his dominance by defending his Tour de France title with ease, winning three stages and showcasing his versatility across mountains, time trials, and sprints. In addition to his Tour victories, Pogačar added prestigious one-day classics like Liège–Bastogne–Liège, Il Lombardia, and the Tour of Flanders to his palmarès, proving himself as a rider who could excel in any type of race.
By 2024, Pogačar had amassed an astonishing number of victories, including two Monuments in a single season and countless other triumphs in WorldTour races. With such an extensive and diverse list of achievements, many began to wonder what more the Slovenian star could possibly aim for.
The Turning Point
In his recent statement, Pogačar revealed that his decision to take a step back wasn’t made lightly. “Cycling has been my life for as long as I can remember,” he said. “It’s given me everything—memories, friendships, and experiences that I’ll cherish forever. But I’ve reached a point where I feel I’ve accomplished everything I set out to achieve.”
For Pogačar, the decision to “kick back and relax” is not about leaving the sport entirely but about finding a healthier balance between his professional and personal life. “I love cycling, and I’ll always be a part of this world in some way,” he explained. “But I also want to explore other aspects of life—spend more time with my family, travel, and pursue interests outside of racing.”
The Toll of Greatness
Behind every victory lies a story of sacrifice, and for Pogačar, the road to greatness has not been without its challenges. The physical and mental demands of competing at the highest level year-round have taken a toll, even on someone as naturally gifted as he is.
“People see the glory—the yellow jerseys, the trophies—but they don’t always see the hard work and sacrifices that go into it,” Pogačar said. “The endless training camps, the injuries, the time away from family and friends—it’s a lot. At some point, you have to ask yourself, ‘What’s next?’”
He also acknowledged the pressure of being in the spotlight. “As a professional athlete, you’re constantly being judged—not just for how you perform, but for everything you say and do. It’s a privilege, but it’s also exhausting.”
A Legacy Secured
Despite stepping back from full-time competition, Pogačar’s legacy in cycling is already cemented. His aggressive racing style, tactical brilliance, and charisma have endeared him to fans worldwide, while his sportsmanship and humility have earned the respect of his peers.
Many experts already consider Pogačar to be among the greatest cyclists of all time, alongside legends like Eddy Merckx, Bernard Hinault, and Chris Froome. His ability to dominate both Grand Tours and one-day classics has set him apart as one of the most complete riders in history.
“Tadej has redefined what it means to be a champion,” said former Tour de France winner Cadel Evans. “He’s not just a phenomenal athlete—he’s also a role model for the next generation of cyclists.”
Life Beyond Racing
So, what does “kicking back and relaxing” look like for Tadej Pogačar? While he hasn’t revealed all the details, he has hinted at a desire to explore new passions and give back to the sport that has given him so much.
“I’d love to mentor young riders and help them navigate the challenges of professional cycling,” he said. “I also want to focus on projects that promote cycling as a sport for everyone, not just professionals.”
Outside of cycling, Pogačar has expressed an interest in nature and sustainability, as well as spending more time with his fiancée, fellow professional cyclist Urška Žigart. The couple has often shared glimpses of their life together on social media, from hiking in the mountains to relaxing at home with their dog, Nero.
“I’m looking forward to just enjoying life without the constant pressure of competition,” Pogačar said. “Whether it’s traveling, trying new things, or simply spending time with Urška and Nero, I’m excited for what’s to come.”
The Cycling World Reacts
News of Pogačar’s decision has sparked an outpouring of admiration and support from fans, teammates, and competitors alike. Many have praised him for his courage in stepping back and prioritizing his well-being.
“Tadej has given us so much joy over the years,” said UAE Team Emirates manager Mauro Gianetti. “We fully support his decision and look forward to seeing what the future holds for him.”
Even rivals like Jonas Vingegaard and Primož Roglič took to social media to express their respect. “Tadej is a true champion, both on and off the bike,” Vingegaard wrote. “Wishing him all the best in this next chapter.”
Tadej Pogačar’s announcement marks the end of an era for cycling, but it also opens the door to exciting new possibilities. As he transitions from relentless competitor to a more balanced lifestyle, he leaves behind a legacy of greatness that will inspire generations to come.
For Pogačar, the future is wide open. Whether he’s mentoring young riders, exploring new passions, or simply enjoying life, one thing is certain: he’ll continue to be a beacon of inspiration in the world of cycling and beyond.
