The day when I start a race without intending to win it, I won't be able to look at myself in the mirror.
Eddy MerckxRead
It's not like at university where you graduate. Every cyclist must start again. At the end of the season you know if you are good or not.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Cycling requires continuous effort and evaluation, much like life, where achievements must be repeatedly earned.
Eddy Merckx emphasizes that in cycling, unlike traditional education, success isn't a one-time achievement; each season offers a fresh start where athletes must prove their skill and dedication anew. This reflects a broader truth about life and pursuits, highlighting the importance of consistent effort and resilience in the face of ongoing challenges.
Themes
CyclingSuccessEffortResilienceMotivation
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech at a sports event.
More from Eddy Merckx
All quotes →You had to be strong in the head... training, training and training. That is the only way, even if you have big talent.
Eddy MerckxRead
Cycling is a sport of the people. How many people in the world have never been on a bike? Not many.
Eddy MerckxRead
I do not want to continue cycling until I am 35. I want to make something else out of my life, too. There are other things besides a bike and racing.
Eddy MerckxRead
I have decided to give up competition. I cannot train properly for the Tour de France which I had hoped to ride for the last time as apotheosis to my career. Doctors are forbidding me to ride anymore in high level competition and I bow to them.
Eddy MerckxRead
I was a more aggressive rider than Armstrong. I would attack more often. He waits for the other guys, then counter-attacks.
Eddy MerckxRead
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