Emotional Matej Mohorik fights back tears: “It’s hard and tough to be a professional cyclist” | Tour de France

He’d already won a stage in the Tour twice before, but his narrow victory at Poligny was clearly very special for Matej Mohoric.

“It means a lot because it’s hard and brutal to be a professional cyclist. You suffer a lot in preparation, you sacrifice a lot and you often leave your family behind.”

“After a few days here I already realize that everyone is so strong. Sometimes I struggled to follow, on the Col de la Loze you were so empty and the next day you have to get back to work. Sometimes you really think you’re out of place here, because everyone is so strong you struggle to keep the wheel.”

Mohoric joined the attack and realized he had to fight back when he attacked Kasper Asgreen. “It was hard to follow as Asgreen accelerated. I was struggling, but I knew it was the decisive attack.”

“I found the mental strength to follow him. He was very strong. Yesterday he attacked and won and today he has the courage to try again.”

Mohoric, along with Ben O’Connor and Kasper Asgreen, were able to stay ahead. Asgreen appeared to be the fastest of the three, but Mohoric was able to outsprint him.

“I don’t win a lot, but I can keep my calm and focus on the decisive moments. I don’t want to be sorry. I knew everything had to be perfect. I did my best, not only for myself, but also for Gino (Mäder, ed.) and the team.”

“I knew I had to take Casper’s wheel and then try to hit him on the line. Casper was by far the best. He actually provided the guide. I don’t have the strongest sprint, but after a day like today you never know.”

“I had already won two stages in the Tour, so I knew I was strong enough to win. But so are the other 150 riders. I wish everyone could win a stage in the Tour, but it’s not possible and it’s cruel.”

The death of his colleague Gino Mader also stirred intense emotions in Mohorik. “We went through a difficult period with the team. I am very happy and proud.”