Mathieu van der Poel's Wife, Roxanne Bertels, a Key to Understanding His Success

Mathieu van der Poel (MVDP), the Dutch cycling phenomenon, has captivated audiences with his explosive power and versatility, dominating cyclocross, road racing, and mountain biking. While his athletic prowess is undeniable, understanding his success extends beyond raw talent and rigorous training. A significant, often overlooked, factor is his long-term partner, Roxanne Bertels, and the stability and support she provides. This explainer delves into why Bertels is a crucial element in understanding van der Poel's dominance.

Who is Roxanne Bertels?

Roxanne Bertels is a Belgian entrepreneur and stylist. While not a professional athlete herself, she is actively involved in van der Poel's life and career, providing emotional support, managing aspects of his business affairs, and maintaining a sense of normalcy amidst the pressures of professional cycling. She largely avoids the spotlight, preferring to support van der Poel from behind the scenes.

What Role Does She Play?

Bertels' role is multifaceted. Beyond the typical partner support, she appears to be a grounding force in van der Poel's demanding life. Reports suggest she handles certain logistical aspects of his career, allowing him to focus solely on training and competition. This includes managing his schedule, coordinating travel, and handling media requests, relieving him of the administrative burden that often plagues professional athletes. Furthermore, she seems to foster a private life outside of cycling, crucial for mental wellbeing.

When Did Their Relationship Begin?

Van der Poel and Bertels have been together for several years, with their relationship becoming public knowledge around 2018. They reportedly met through mutual friends and have maintained a strong bond ever since. Their long-term commitment provides a consistent foundation in a sport characterized by constant travel, high pressure, and intense scrutiny.

Where Does Their Support Manifest?

The impact of Bertels' support is evident both on and off the racecourse. Publicly, she is often seen at races, offering encouragement and celebrating his victories. Privately, she provides a stable home environment, allowing van der Poel to recover and recharge between competitions. Their home base in Belgium is a sanctuary away from the media frenzy, enabling him to disconnect and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Why Is This Relationship Significant?

Understanding the importance of Roxanne Bertels in Mathieu van der Poel's success relies on understanding the specific pressures faced by elite athletes.

• Mental Wellbeing: Professional cycling is incredibly demanding, requiring intense physical and mental fortitude. The constant pressure to perform, the relentless training schedule, and the scrutiny of the media can take a significant toll. A stable and supportive partner like Bertels can provide a vital emotional outlet and help mitigate the risk of burnout. Studies have shown that athletes with strong social support systems experience lower levels of stress and anxiety, leading to improved performance (Smith et al., 1995).
• Work-Life Balance: Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial for longevity in any profession, but particularly in the demanding world of professional sports. Bertels' involvement in managing aspects of van der Poel's career allows him to focus on his training and racing, preventing him from being overwhelmed by administrative tasks. This allows him to dedicate more time to recovery and personal pursuits, fostering a more sustainable and enjoyable career.
• Privacy and Normality: In an age of constant media attention, maintaining privacy is increasingly difficult for high-profile athletes. Bertels' low-key approach and focus on building a life outside of cycling provides van der Poel with a sense of normalcy and allows him to escape the pressures of his profession. This is essential for maintaining perspective and preventing the sport from consuming his entire identity.

Historical Context: The Importance of Support Networks in Cycling

Historically, the support networks of professional cyclists were often limited to coaches and team staff. However, the increasing demands of the sport and the growing awareness of mental health have led to a greater emphasis on the importance of family and partners. Numerous examples exist where the support of a partner has been credited with contributing to an athlete's success. For example, Marianne Vos, another Dutch cycling icon, has often spoken about the support of her family and friends in navigating the challenges of her career.

Current Developments: MVDP's Continued Success

Van der Poel's continued success in recent years, including his dominant performances in the 2023 UCI Road World Championships and major Spring Classics victories, underscores the effectiveness of his current support system. His ability to consistently perform at the highest level across multiple disciplines is a testament to his talent and dedication, but also to the stability and support he receives from Bertels.

Likely Next Steps: Maintaining the Balance

Moving forward, the key for van der Poel and Bertels will be to maintain the balance they have established. As his career continues to evolve and new challenges arise, their ability to adapt and adjust their support system will be crucial. This may involve further refining their roles, seeking professional advice on managing stress and maintaining mental wellbeing, and prioritizing their relationship amidst the demands of professional cycling.

In conclusion, while Mathieu van der Poel's athletic talent is undeniable, attributing his success solely to physical prowess would be a disservice. Roxanne Bertels plays a critical, often unseen, role in his life, providing emotional support, managing logistical aspects of his career, and fostering a sense of normalcy. Her presence is a crucial key to understanding the foundation upon which van der Poel's dominance is built. Recognizing this highlights the importance of holistic support systems in the demanding world of professional sports.

Data Point Citation (Example):

Smith, R. E., Smoll, F. L., & Schutz, R. W. (1995). Stress and athletic injury: Conceptual, methodological, and intervention issues. *Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 27*(7), 889-899.