'I've struggled with it because I felt like I was more under the watchful eye' – Urška Žigart opens up about handling attention and reaching potential with the belief of her team

Slovenian climber Urška Žigart has openly discussed the challenges of heightened attention and the pivotal role her AG Insurance-Soudal team played in unlocking her potential during her most successful season to date. Žigart, who secured a stage win at the Tour de Romandie Féminin and finished 15th at the Giro d'Italia Women, credited her team with "pushing the right buttons" to overcome previous struggles with pressure, suggesting a significant shift in her mental approach and performance.

This candid reflection from Žigart, a former Slovenian national champion and partner to Tadej Pogačar, offers insight into the often-unseen psychological pressures elite athletes face, particularly when under increased scrutiny. Her breakthrough season, marked by consistent top-tier performances, demonstrates the tangible benefits of a supportive team environment that prioritizes rider well-being alongside physical training. It highlights a growing trend in professional cycling where mental fortitude and team dynamics are increasingly recognized as critical differentiators.

Žigart's experience underscores that even the most talented riders sometimes need more than just watts; a finely tuned support system can be the ultimate performance enhancer.