Urška Žigart has opened up candidly about life as both a professional cyclist and the long-time partner of Tadej Pogačar, one of the biggest stars the sport has ever seen. In a heartfelt reflection, the Slovenian rider admitted that she is often recognized more as “Pogačar’s girlfriend” than for her own achievements, but made clear that she remains determined to carve out her own identity in the world of cycling.
Žigart, who rides for the Women’s WorldTour team Jayco AlUla, has been steadily developing her career in the peloton, competing in stage races and time trials at the highest level. Despite her progress and professionalism, she acknowledges the shadow cast by Pogačar’s meteoric rise and global fame. “I think it will always be more known that I am Tadej Pogacar’s girlfriend,” she explained in a recent interview. “But that doesn’t mean I am not proud of who I am or what I am doing. I am still an athlete in my own right, and I’m focused on growing in this sport.”
For Žigart, the balance between personal life and professional identity is not always easy. At races, she is frequently asked about Pogačar, his performances, and their relationship, sometimes overshadowing her own efforts on the road. Yet, she remains pragmatic, recognizing that his success has also inspired a new wave of interest in Slovenian cycling, something that benefits the entire sport. “I know Tadej is special, and I support him with all my heart,” she said. “But I also know I have my own path to follow. My dreams may be different, but they are still important to me.”
Her words resonated with many fans, particularly women in sports who often face similar challenges when linked to more famous partners or teammates. Žigart has been praised for her honesty and her willingness to speak openly about the complexities of being both a partner to a superstar and a competitor striving to make her own mark.
Colleagues and teammates describe Žigart as a dedicated rider who trains with determination and races with resilience, regardless of the attention that comes with her relationship. Within the women’s peloton, she has earned respect for her professionalism and her supportive presence, often serving as a role model for younger riders trying to navigate the pressures of sport and personal identity.
Her story also highlights a broader reality in professional cycling: the disparity in visibility between men’s and women’s racing. While Pogačar competes under the spotlight of the Tour de France and other high-profile events, Žigart often races with less media coverage, despite putting in the same hours of training and commitment. For her, the challenge is not just personal but also symbolic of the work still needed to raise the profile of women’s cycling.
As she continues her career, Žigart remains optimistic. She insists that she does not measure her worth in comparison to Pogačar, but instead in terms of her own progress, goals, and the joy she finds in competing. “At the end of the day, I ride because I love cycling,” she said. “That’s what keeps me motivated. And if I can inspire even a few people by doing my best, then I think I’m on the right path.”
In embracing both her relationship with one of cycling’s brightest stars and her personal journey as a professional athlete, Urška Žigart embodies resilience and authenticity. While the world may continue to see her through the lens of being “Tadej Pogačar’s girlfriend,” her determination ensures that her own story will never be lost, but instead written alongside his—different, but equally meaningful.
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