NBC Sport: Tadej Pogacar statement as he speaks on What he has been up to since stepping away from racing.

Tadej Pogačar Opens Up About Life and Aspirations During Racing Hiatus

In an exclusive interview with NBC Sports, Slovenian cycling sensation Tadej Pogačar has shed light on his life since taking a break from professional racing. The 25-year-old, renowned for his remarkable achievements in the sport, including his back-to-back Tour de France victories, has used this period away from the peloton to reflect on his career and personal life, providing fans with an intimate glimpse into his journey beyond the bike.

**A Well-Deserved Break**

Pogačar’s decision to step away from competitive cycling was unexpected for many, given his prominence and recent successes. However, the hiatus comes as a strategic move to allow him time to recharge and reevaluate his career and personal goals. “Cycling has been my life for so many years, and taking this break has given me a chance to step back and gain perspective,” Pogačar said. “The intensity of the sport can be overwhelming, and it’s important to find balance.”

**Personal Growth and New Interests**

During his time off, Pogačar has immersed himself in activities that had previously taken a backseat due to his demanding schedule. One of his primary focuses has been on personal development and exploring interests outside of cycling. “I’ve been able to pursue some hobbies that I didn’t have time for before,” he shared. “I’ve always had a passion for nature and outdoor activities, so I’ve been hiking and exploring new places. It’s been refreshing to reconnect with these aspects of life.”

Pogačar has also devoted time to his family and friends, cherishing moments that he previously missed due to his rigorous racing calendar. “Spending quality time with loved ones has been incredibly fulfilling,” he said. “It’s something that I value deeply, and this break has allowed me to strengthen those connections.”

**Training and Future Plans**

Despite his hiatus from racing, Pogačar has not entirely stepped away from training. He has maintained a regimen that focuses on overall fitness rather than race-specific preparation. “I’ve been keeping up with a balanced training program to stay in shape,” he explained. “It’s important to stay active and healthy, but I’ve also been focusing on recovery and injury prevention.”

Looking ahead, Pogačar is thoughtful about his return to competitive cycling. “I’m not rushing into it,” he said. “I want to come back when I’m fully ready and motivated. This time off has given me a chance to think about my long-term goals and how I want to approach the next phase of my career.”

**Reflection on Achievements**

Pogačar’s time away has also been a period of reflection on his achievements and contributions to the sport. He expressed pride in his accomplishments but emphasized that there is always more to strive for. “Winning the Tour de France was a dream come true, but I know there’s always more to achieve,” he noted. “I’ve been thinking about how I can continue to push the boundaries and make a lasting impact on cycling.”

**Mental Health and Well-Being**

A significant aspect of Pogačar’s hiatus has been his focus on mental health and well-being. The pressures of professional sports can be immense, and Pogačar has been candid about the importance of addressing mental health. “Taking care of my mental health has been a priority,” he said. “Cycling is demanding not just physically but mentally, and it’s crucial to have strategies for managing stress and maintaining a positive mindset.”

**Community Engagement and Charitable Work**

In addition to personal pursuits, Pogačar has remained engaged with the cycling community and charitable causes. He has been involved in several initiatives aimed at supporting young cyclists and promoting the sport at the grassroots level. “I want to give back and help nurture the next generation of cyclists,” he said. “It’s important to support and inspire young athletes who are passionate about the sport.”

**Looking Forward**

As Tadej Pogačar continues to navigate this period of his life, the cycling world eagerly anticipates his return. His time away from racing has provided him with valuable insights and a renewed sense of purpose. Fans and peers alike are excited to see how he will channel his experiences into his future endeavors on the bike.

In conclusion, Tadej Pogačar’s statement reveals a thoughtful and introspective athlete who is using his hiatus to focus on personal growth, well-being, and future aspirations. His journey underscores the importance of balance and mental health in the demanding world of professional sports. As he prepares for his return, Pogačar’s experiences serve as a reminder of the human side of athletic excellence and the ongoing pursuit of personal and professional fulfillment.