Cooper Webb, one of the fiercest competitors in the world of motocross, recently bestowed high praise upon his long-time rival Eli Tomac, calling him one of the greatest riders of all time. For Webb, who is a two-time AMA Supercross Champion himself, to acknowledge Tomac in such terms is a significant moment in motocross history, not just for fans but for the sport as a whole.
Cooper Webb has never been one to shy away from competition. His career is marked by determination, fierce rivalries, and an undeniable will to win. Having faced some of the sport’s most dominant riders, Webb has consistently proven himself as a top-tier competitor. With victories in both the 2019 and 2021 Supercross seasons, Webb’s legacy is already secured. However, even as a champion, he understands and recognizes true greatness when he sees it, and this is precisely what he sees in Eli Tomac.
Webb’s acknowledgment of Tomac as the greatest of all time (GOAT) didn’t come lightly. The two riders have locked horns numerous times in the AMA Supercross and Motocross championships, battling for supremacy. Throughout their fierce rivalry, Tomac’s relentless speed, technical prowess, and consistent dominance have left an indelible mark not only on Webb but on the entire motocross community.
Eli Tomac’s career is filled with accomplishments that back up Webb’s assertion. With multiple AMA Supercross and Pro Motocross titles under his belt, Tomac has solidified his position as one of the sport’s most decorated athletes. His dominance across different terrains and in different seasons showcases his adaptability and raw talent, characteristics that make him a formidable opponent on the track.
One of the most notable aspects of Tomac’s career is his ability to perform under pressure. Whether it’s chasing down championships in Supercross or facing stiff competition in outdoor motocross, Tomac consistently rises to the occasion. His mental fortitude, combined with his undeniable skill on the bike, has made him a legend in the eyes of his peers, including Webb.
In the 2020 and 2022 Supercross seasons, Tomac captured the 450cc championship, cementing his legacy in the sport. Even more impressive was his ability to compete at the highest level in motocross during those same years, showcasing his versatility. Riders like Tomac who can seamlessly transition between different disciplines and maintain dominance are rare, and this is one reason Webb considers him to be the greatest.
The rivalry between Webb and Tomac has never been short of thrilling moments. Fans have witnessed these two riders push each other to the absolute limit, creating some of the most memorable battles in modern motocross history. Yet, even in the heat of competition, there has always been an undercurrent of respect between the two.
In post-race interviews, Webb has often spoken highly of Tomac’s skill set, noting his relentless drive and mental toughness. This most recent declaration, calling Tomac the GOAT, is just another layer to that long-standing admiration. It’s clear that Webb sees Tomac as the benchmark in the sport, the rider everyone measures themselves against.
For Tomac, having the respect of someone like Webb is undoubtedly meaningful. Cooper Webb is a rider who knows what it takes to win at the highest level, and his recognition carries weight within the motocross community. When someone as accomplished as Webb refers to you as the greatest, it’s not just a compliment—it’s a testament to the years of hard work, dedication, and success.
The term “greatest of all time” is often used loosely in sports, but when it comes from someone like Webb, it sparks genuine debate. Tomac is undoubtedly a leading contender for the title, but he is up against legends such as Ricky Carmichael, James Stewart, and Ryan Villopoto. Each of these riders has contributed to the sport in monumental ways, and each brings a unique set of accomplishments to the table.
What sets Tomac apart, according to Webb, is his ability to dominate in both Supercross and Motocross, coupled with his longevity in the sport. Tomac has been racing professionally for over a decade, and his ability to maintain a high level of performance throughout his career is nothing short of remarkable. While others may have had dominant seasons, Tomac’s sustained excellence across multiple years, championships, and disciplines makes him a standout figure in the history of motocross.
Webb’s claim that Tomac is the greatest also speaks to the evolution of the sport. Today’s riders are faster, stronger, and more technically advanced than ever before. To succeed in this highly competitive environment requires a combination of skill, physical conditioning, and mental toughness that few possess. Tomac’s ability to excel in this modern era, according to Webb, is a testament to his greatness.
As Eli Tomac continues to race, his legacy in the sport only grows stronger. While he faces tough competition from rising stars and veterans alike, his performances have shown no signs of slowing down. For Cooper Webb and many other riders, Tomac’s ability to maintain his high standards and deliver clutch performances makes him an icon in motocross.
In motorsports, legends are often defined by their impact on those who race against them. Tomac, through his unwavering determination and consistent excellence, has earned the respect of his fiercest competitors. Webb’s praise is not just an acknowledgment of past successes but a recognition of Tomac’s continuing influence on the sport.
While the GOAT debate may continue among fans and analysts, for Cooper Webb, there’s no doubt: Eli Tomac has earned his place among the all-time greats, if not at the very top. This respect between two champions reminds us that greatness is not just about winning titles—it’s about inspiring others, even your fiercest rivals, to be better. Eli Tomac, in Webb’s eyes, is the embodiment of that greatness.
