Pogacar on his injuries after the fall: I was glad to be alive and able to stand on my feet

Tadej Pogacar, the Slovenian cyclist, had to withdraw from the Vuelta after a crash during the eighth stage. He underwent surgery for a broken collarbone and later discovered fractures in three vertebrae during a CT scan. Pogacar expressed relief at being alive and able to stand, despite suffering from a concussion that caused dizziness and coordination issues. He required assistance for basic tasks like showering and struggled with his condition in the weeks following the accident. Although he has made significant progress in rehabilitation, he remains cautious about his recovery and the possibility of another fall, acknowledging the risks involved. He is not rushing his return to cycling.