Bearing defeat but not losing heart is what makes winners

In sport and in life, everybody wants to be like Eddy Merckx – the outrageously gifted Belgian cyclist whose natural talent and extra-terrestrial strength allowed him to brush aside his rivals with contemptuous ease.

Bearing defeat but not losing heart is what makes winners

In reality, the vast majority of us have a lot more in common with Joop Zoetemelk. ‘And who the hell is Joop Zoetemelk?’ I hear you ask. It’s a perfectly valid question, but if you bear with me, I’ll explain.

Zoetemelk was actually a very successful cyclist. It’s just he spent most of his career chasing men who were slightly better than him.

Already a subscriber? Sign in

You have reached your article limit.

Unlimited access. Half the price.

Annual €120 €60

Best value

Monthly €10€5 / month

More in this section

Sport

Newsletter

Latest news from the world of sport, along with the best in opinion from our outstanding team of sports writers. and reporters

Cookie Policy Privacy Policy Brand Safety FAQ Help Contact Us Terms and Conditions

© Examiner Echo Group Limited