Why did Tadej Pogacar shut down question from cycling reporter in Andy Murray style after stunning Strade Bianche win?
Published 09/03/2025 at 21:18 GMT
Tadej Pogacar channelled his inner Andy Murray when correcting a reporter in the mixed zone after his epic victory at Strade Bianche. Pogacar highlighted the achievement of Lotte Kopecky, who won last year wearing the rainbow jersey - an achievement he replicated in the men's race on Saturday. Murray made similar comments in the tennis sphere, citing the Williams sisters' achievements.
'Don't know why everybody keeps saying that' - Pogacar corrects interviewer over rainbow jersey feat
Video credit: TNT Sports
Tadej Pogacar shut down a reporter - albeit politely - for asking a particular question following his epic victory at Strade Bianche on Saturday.
The 26-year-old overcame a crash with 50km remaining to storm to a second consecutive victory at the race, and his third overall.
Pogacar powered his way to victory after launching a race-winning move at Colle Pinzuto.
He would arrive at the finish line at Siena's Piazza del Campo more than a minute clear of second-placed Tom Pidcock.
It was a bloodying and bruising victory for UAE Team Emirates-XRG rider, who revealed his pain after crossing the finish line.
He said: "I enjoyed it until I crossed the finish line.
"The adrenaline wore off and now I start to feel a lot of pain. Not the best way to win a race, but every win is a win, so let's hope it's nothing more than it looks."
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Highlights: Bloodied Pogacar wins second straight Strade Bianche
Video credit: TNT Sports
Reflecting on the crash in more detail, he explained: "I went too fast, I guess. I know this road very well. Sometimes you misjudge, and I don't know, I just slipped and s*** happens."
And as he made his way to the mixed zone, a question appeared to irk the Slovenian.
When asked how he felt about being the first rainbow jersey holder (world champion) to win Strade Bianche, he responded: "I don't know why everyone keeps saying that I'm the first world champion to win here, because if I remember correctly last year, Lotte [Kopecky] won here."
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Kopecky claimed victory in the women's race in 2024, and Pogacar's response to the question led to comparisons with Andy Murray and his observation regarding the Williams sisters.
Murray had just been defeated in five sets by Sam Querrey in the 2017 Wimbledon quarter-finals, and was asked by a reporter: "Andy, Sam is the first US player to reach a major semi-final since 2009, how would you describe..."
But before the reporter could finish the question, Murray interjected and said: "male player," referring to the Williams sisters.
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'I went too fast' – Pogacar on dramatic crash at Strade Bianche before stunning comeback
Video credit: TNT Sports
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