In a recent interview following a dramatic podium finish, two-time Supercross champion Cooper Webb reflected on the landscape of modern motocross and expressed admiration for one of his greatest rivals, Eli Tomac. Webb, known for his fierce competitiveness, took the opportunity to publicly praise Tomac, recognizing him as one of the greatest riders of their generation, if not the best in modern Supercross.
Cooper Webb, whose accolades include two Monster Energy AMA Supercross titles (2019 and 2021), has long been a force in the sport. His riding style is defined by determination and a strategic, cerebral approach to races, often making late surges that catch his rivals off-guard. Webb’s battles with Eli Tomac, another multi-time Supercross and Pro Motocross champion, have been the centerpiece of several thrilling seasons of racing.
While Webb’s strength lies in his ability to push himself to the edge when it matters most, Tomac’s dominance has often been built on sheer speed and relentless endurance. Over the years, the two have traded blows on the track, each taking turns in the spotlight. Yet, after all those intense duels, Webb’s recent comments about Tomac’s greatness reflect the deep respect that has grown between the two competitors.
After clinching a podium spot, Webb’s post-race interview was more than just about his own performance. He took a moment to shift the focus to Tomac, who had once again showcased his racing brilliance. Speaking with humility, Webb described Tomac as “the greatest of our time.” This statement, from one of the sport’s top riders, sent waves through the motocross community.
“For me, competing against someone like Eli Tomac elevates everything,” Webb said. “He’s someone who sets the standard. His consistency, the way he manages pressure, his speed—he’s the total package. I’ve battled with him season after season, and every time, he brings something new, something that pushes everyone else to another level.”
Webb’s comments weren’t just empty praise. They acknowledged how Tomac has reshaped the competitive landscape, forcing his rivals to step up their game in response to his dominance. Whether it’s Supercross or Pro Motocross, Tomac’s ability to ride at the front of the pack, while managing both the physical and mental toll of the sport, has made him a benchmark for others to measure themselves against.
Despite their fierce rivalry on the track, Webb and Tomac’s relationship has evolved into one of mutual respect. The two have had numerous head-to-head clashes, often pushing each other to the brink. Yet, beyond the checkered flag, there seems to be a shared understanding of what it takes to reach their level of success.
Webb touched on this dynamic in the interview, explaining how competing against someone like Tomac has shaped his own career: “I think it’s a blessing to race against a guy like Eli. He’s pushed me to become a better rider. When you’re up against someone who’s that good, you can’t afford to slack off. You have to keep improving.”
Webb’s praise of Tomac is particularly notable because motocross riders, much like athletes in other sports, tend to avoid publicly elevating their competition. The world of motocross is built on individual achievement, and riders often guard their egos closely. Webb’s decision to honor Tomac in this way speaks to the profound impact Tomac has had on the sport and on Webb himself.
Eli Tomac’s career achievements speak for themselves. With multiple Supercross and Pro Motocross championships under his belt, Tomac has long been considered one of the fastest and most complete riders in the history of the sport. His adaptability across different track conditions and racing formats, combined with an unshakable focus, has earned him legions of fans and the respect of his peers.
What sets Tomac apart, beyond his raw talent, is his resilience. His ability to consistently perform at the highest level, year after year, has kept him at the top of the sport for an extended period. This longevity, coupled with his aggressive yet calculated riding style, has left an indelible mark on the world of motocross.
Tomac’s 2023 season, though marked by ups and downs, has continued to cement his legacy as one of the sport’s all-time greats. His decision to return to competition after contemplating retirement also signals his unyielding passion for racing, something that Webb acknowledged in his interview.
As both riders continue their careers, the rivalry between Webb and Tomac will undoubtedly remain one of the sport’s most compelling narratives. Webb’s respectful nod toward Tomac could be seen as a moment of transition—a passing of the torch, or perhaps a deeper recognition that Tomac’s influence will last far beyond their individual races.
However, this doesn’t mean Webb is ready to take a backseat. In fact, his admiration for Tomac seems to fuel his own desire to keep pushing his limits. “I’m still hungry,” Webb concluded. “I’ve got more championships in me, and I’m going to keep battling. Eli sets the bar high, but that’s where I want to be.”
As the sport of Supercross evolves, with new talent emerging every year, the legacy of riders like Eli Tomac and Cooper Webb will remain foundational. Webb’s acknowledgment of Tomac as the greatest of their era marks a significant moment of reflection in the sport’s history, but it’s also a signal that the story is far from over.
Cooper Webb’s public praise of Eli Tomac as “the greatest of our time” highlights the deep respect that has developed between two of the sport’s fiercest competitors. Their rivalry has shaped the modern era of Supercross and Pro Motocross, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on the track. While Tomac’s legacy is already firmly established, Webb’s admiration doesn’t suggest he’s ready to step aside—if anything, it reveals his determination to continue chasing greatness in a sport where only the strongest survive.
In a world where individual achievement often takes center stage, Webb’s candid remarks show that true greatness is sometimes best recognized by those who know it most intimately—the ones who battle against it week after week, on the track and in the heat of competition.
