Opinion: Is Tadej Pogačar the Greatest of All Time (GOAT)?
In the world of professional cycling, the title of “Greatest of All Time” (GOAT) is one that sparks intense debate. Cycling, a sport steeped in tradition and history, has seen its fair share of legends—Eddy Merckx, Bernard Hinault, Miguel Indurain, and more recently, Lance Armstrong before his fall from grace. Now, a new name is being added to the conversation: Tadej Pogačar.
At just 25 years old, the Slovenian sensation has already achieved what many cyclists could only dream of in a lifetime. But is it too soon to crown him as the GOAT, or are we witnessing the rise of cycling’s next enduring legend?
Pogačar’s Meteoric Rise
Tadej Pogačar’s ascent to the top of the cycling world has been nothing short of extraordinary. He first burst onto the scene in 2019, when he won three stages and finished third overall in the Vuelta a España, his first Grand Tour. However, it was his stunning victory in the 2020 Tour de France that truly announced his arrival. At just 21, Pogačar became the youngest winner of the Tour in over a century, clinching the yellow jersey on the penultimate stage in a dramatic time trial that left the cycling world in awe.
Pogačar’s dominance continued with another Tour de France victory in 2021, where he won the yellow, white, and polka-dot jerseys—a feat that solidified his reputation as a once-in-a-generation talent. His versatility, combining incredible climbing ability with powerful time trial performances, set him apart from his peers.
Comparing Pogačar to the Legends
The GOAT debate often hinges on how an athlete’s achievements stack up against those who came before. Eddy Merckx, often considered the greatest cyclist of all time, won five Tour de France titles, five Giro d’Italia titles, and countless one-day classics, earning him the nickname “The Cannibal” for his relentless pursuit of victories. Merckx’s versatility, dominance across all disciplines of the sport, and longevity make him the benchmark against which all others are measured.
Pogačar, in comparison, has two Tour de France victories, multiple classic wins, and has shown an ability to compete across various types of races. While his achievements are remarkable, especially at such a young age, they still fall short of Merckx’s towering legacy. However, it’s important to remember that Pogačar’s career is far from over, and he has the potential to add many more titles to his name.
The Modern Era and Its Challenges
One argument in favor of Pogačar’s GOAT status is the context in which he competes. The modern era of cycling is characterized by advanced training methods, cutting-edge technology, and a highly competitive field. Unlike in Merckx’s time, where a handful of riders dominated, today’s peloton is deeper and more closely matched, making Pogačar’s consistent success all the more impressive.
Moreover, the level of scrutiny in the current era, especially in the wake of the doping scandals that have plagued the sport, means that Pogačar’s achievements come under intense examination. His performances have passed every test, further cementing his status as a clean and credible champion.
The Case for Patience
Despite the temptation to crown Pogačar as the GOAT, there is a strong case for patience. Cycling careers are long, and the sport is unforgiving. Injuries, team dynamics, and the wear and tear of constant competition can take their toll. Pogačar’s ability to maintain his current level of performance over the next decade will be crucial in determining his place in the pantheon of cycling greats.
Moreover, the GOAT title isn’t just about statistics. It’s about influence, impact, and legacy. Merckx, Hinault, and others not only won races but also shaped the sport and inspired generations. Pogačar’s journey is still unfolding, and while he is well on his way to becoming a legend, the full scope of his influence will only be seen with time.
Tadej Pogačar is undoubtedly one of the most talented cyclists of his generation, and his achievements at such a young age are nothing short of phenomenal. However, the title of GOAT is one that should be bestowed with caution and only after a full career has been evaluated.
For now, Pogačar is writing his chapter in the history of cycling—a chapter that may one day stand alongside the greatest of all time. Whether he ultimately claims the GOAT title will depend not just on his results but on how he navigates the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. What is certain is that the cycling world will be watching closely, eager to see just how far this prodigious talent can go.
