Known as “The Cannibal” for his insatiable appetite for victory, Merckx’s retirement marked the conclusion of a career that had redefined the sport of cycling.
Eddy Merckx’s journey to greatness began in the 1960s, and by the time he retired, he had amassed an astonishing 525 victories, including five Tour de France titles, five Giro d’Italia victories, and one Vuelta a Espaรฑa win. His dominance was not confined to Grand Tours; he also claimed victories in all five Monuments of cyclingโMilan-San Remo, Tour of Flanders, Paris-Roubaix, Liรจge-Bastogne-Liรจge, and Giro di Lombardiaโa feat that few cyclists have ever come close to achieving.
Merckx’s career was defined by his relentless pursuit of excellence. His ability to dominate on both flat stages and in the mountains, his exceptional time-trialling skills, and his tactical acumen made him a formidable competitor. He was not just a rider who won races; he often did so with an aggression and flair that left spectators and competitors in awe. His record-breaking hour ride in 1972, covering 49.431 kilometers, remains one of the most iconic moments in cycling history.
However, Merckx’s career was not without its challenges. He suffered numerous injuries, including a severe crash during the 1969 Tour de France that left him with lingering pain for the rest of his career. Despite these setbacks, Merckx continued to race with unparalleled determination, often pushing through pain to secure victory.
On his retirement day, Merckx reflected on his illustrious career with a mixture of pride and humility. He acknowledged the sacrifices he had made and the toll that professional cycling had taken on his body, but he also expressed gratitude for the opportunities and experiences the sport had given him. His retirement was a moment of bittersweet celebration for the cycling communityโwhile they bid farewell to a legend, they also knew that his legacy would endure.
Eddy Merckx’s retirement marked the end of a golden era in cycling. His achievements set a benchmark for future generations, and his name remains synonymous with excellence in the sport. Even in retirement, Merckx’s influence on cycling continues to be felt, as he inspires new generations of riders to push the limits of what is possible on two wheels.