Breaking News: Mathieu van der Poel Opens Up About Bullying and How His Grandfather Helped Him Overcome It
In an emotional interview, professional cyclist Mathieu van der Poel has bravely shared his experiences with bullying during his youth and how his grandfather, cycling legend Raymond Poulidor, played a pivotal role in helping him cope and rise above the challenges.
Mathieu, a well-known name in the world of professional cycling, has enjoyed remarkable success on the international stage. However, behind the victories and accolades, lies a painful past that he has kept largely private until now. The 28-year-old revealed that as a young boy, he was often bullied by his peers. The reason? A deep-seated resentment toward his family’s cycling legacy.
Being the grandson of Raymond Poulidor, one of the most beloved figures in French cycling history, carried with it both expectations and jealousy. Poulidor, despite his legendary status and numerous podium finishes in the Tour de France, never won the coveted yellow jersey. He became a symbol of perseverance and the tragic hero of French cycling, someone fans adored. However, for many of Mathieu’s classmates and peers, the constant comparisons to his grandfather and the fame that surrounded him proved difficult to handle.
“From a very young age, I could feel that people saw me differently because of my family. I didn’t have the chance to just be a normal kid. I felt like I was constantly under a microscope. Some of my peers didn’t understand it, and I became an easy target for their frustration,” van der Poel confessed during the interview.
The bullying Mathieu endured came in various forms, from taunts and name-calling to outright exclusion. The young cyclist found it hard to fit in at school, where many believed he had an unfair advantage due to his family’s legacy. This alienation left deep emotional scars, and Mathieu admits that there were moments when he seriously doubted himself.
However, one person who stood by him during these dark times was his grandfather, Raymond Poulidor. Though Poulidor was known for his stoic and reserved nature, he offered Mathieu the wisdom and emotional strength that would help him through those difficult years.
“Grandpa was everything to me,” said van der Poel, his voice filled with affection. “He didn’t speak much about it, but I could feel his support. He always told me that the most important thing was to stay true to myself and to focus on what I loved. He taught me to embrace the challenges and not let others define who I am.”
Poulidor’s advice, though simple, resonated deeply with the young cyclist. He urged Mathieu to channel his energy into his passion for cycling rather than succumbing to the negativity around him. “Cycling was my escape,” van der Poel recalled. “When things got tough, I could always count on my bike to clear my mind and remind me of what really mattered.”
As the years passed, Mathieu began to find his own path. His natural talent on the bike began to shine, and the young athlete quickly made a name for himself, not because of his grandfather’s legacy, but due to his own hard work and dedication. Today, he is regarded as one of the best cyclists of his generation, winning multiple prestigious races, including the Tour of Flanders and the World Cyclocross Championships.
Reflecting on his journey, Mathieu acknowledges that overcoming the bullying he faced was crucial in shaping who he is today. “It was a hard time, but looking back, I think those experiences made me stronger. They taught me resilience and gave me the mental toughness I need to compete at the highest level,” he said.
Mathieu’s story serves as an inspiring reminder of the importance of perseverance, the support of family, and staying true to oneself in the face of adversity. With his grandfather’s wisdom guiding him through the toughest moments, Mathieu van der Poel has emerged not just as a champion on the bike but as a beacon of strength and determination.