Eddy Merckx: The Cannibal, the Greatest Cyclist of All Time

Eddy Merckx is widely considered to be the greatest cyclist of all time. Nicknamed "The Cannibal" for his insatiable appetite for victory, Merckx dominated the sport in the 1960s and 1970s, winning an unprecedented five Tours de France, five Giro d'Italias, and five Monuments (Milan-San Remo, Tour of Flanders, Paris-Roubaix, Liège-Bastogne-Liège, and Giro di Lombardia).

Eddy Merckx: The Cannibal

by Daniel Friebe

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Merckx was born in Meensel-Kiezegem, Belgium, on June 17, 1945. He began racing at the age of 18 and quickly rose through the ranks, winning the amateur world championship in 1964. He turned professional in 1965 and soon began to dominate the sport.

Merckx's Palmares

Merckx's palmares is simply staggering. He won 525 races during his career, including 11 Grand Tours (5 Tours de France, 5 Giro d'Italias, and 1 Vuelta a España). He also won 28 Classics, including five Monuments. Merckx was also a world champion in both the road race and the time trial.

Merckx's dominance was such that he was often unbeatable. In the 1971 Tour de France, he won 8 stages and finished more than 9 minutes ahead of the second-place finisher. In the 1972 Tour de France, he won 6 stages and finished more than 10 minutes ahead of the second-place finisher.

Merckx's Riding Style

Merckx was a complete rider who could win on all types of terrain. He was a powerful time trialist, a brilliant climber, and a fast sprinter. He was also a master tactician who was always one step ahead of his rivals.

Merckx's riding style was characterized by his relentless aggression. He was always attacking, always trying to break away from his rivals. He was also known for his ability to suffer. He could push himself to the limit and beyond, even when he was in pain.

Merckx's Legacy

Merckx retired from cycling in 1978 at the age of 33. He remains the greatest cyclist of all time. His palmares is unmatched, and his riding style was legendary. Merckx has inspired generations of cyclists, and his legacy will continue to inspire for many years to come.

In 2000, Merckx was named the "Athlete of the Century" by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF). He has also been inducted into the International Cycling Hall of Fame and the Belgian Sports Hall of Fame.

Eddy Merckx is the greatest cyclist of all time. His palmares is unmatched, and his riding style was legendary. He has inspired generations of cyclists, and his legacy will continue to inspire for many years to come.