Open-hearted Mees Hendrikx rings personal alarm bell: "Chances are high I won't be professional anymore in March"

In the "Renners uit de streek" series, IDL editor Youri van den Berg enjoys sharing stories about cyclists from North Brabant, whether they are still active or have retired. Following episodes featuring Rob van Broekhoven and Stan Godrie, this third long read centers around Mees Hendrikx. In an extensive one-on-one interview, the candid Hendrikx, once celebrated as one of Holland's greatest cyclocross talents, reveals that the current circumstances are markedly different.

Hendrikx is a familiar name in the world of cyclocross. The 23-year-old cyclist from Corelan-Corendon achieved notable success in the youth categories, including a bronze medal at the 2020 Under-23 World Championships behind Ryan Kamp and Kevin Kuhn. His final victory in the U23 World Cup in 2022 hinted at a promising future. However, the present reality tells a different story. In his second full season with the elite men, Hendrikx is not meeting the expected standards. "So far, this season has fallen short of my expectations. Personally, it's quite disappointing. I had anticipated more," he shared with us ahead of the X2O Trophy in Koksijde.

Frank Hendrikx lacks clear explanation for underwhelming seasons at elite level

"I unfortunately have no explanation for it," he continued when pressed for insights. "That's somewhat the issue. My season as a senior pledge was exceptionally strong, and I genuinely believed I was ready to progress to the next level. Last year was a bit disappointing, but there were positive moments. This season, however, has lacked any notable peaks. I faced injuries last summer, along with other challenges, leaving me far from the level I aspire to. pinpointing the exact reasons, though, is something I'm hesitant to do."

Undoubtedly, Hendrikx is enduring a challenging season. For someone who was once celebrated as a top talent, such a downturn is especially disheartening. "Mentally, I've always been quite resilient. Even so, I've been consulting with a mental coach for years, a practice that has become increasingly standard within the team and cyclocross in general. It's not solely in response to this disappointing year, but when I compare how things were two years ago to now, it's a world of difference."

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Kamp and Ronhaar made the move; I find myself a bit behind

The rider from Valkenswaard mentions that he typically doesn't compare seasons, but these days, he can't seem to avoid it. Eventually, you start evaluating your U23 results among the elite riders. Unconsciously, you become preoccupied with it. If you can't reach the same level as before, you begin questioning why. The outstanding results achieved in youth categories bring a certain pressure. Back then, Hendrikx could compete with riders like Kamp and Pim Ronhaar, both now fixtures in the top ten of elite riders. Secretly, expectations rise. Pim and Ryan have made the leap; I lag behind a bit. Naturally, you impose a significant amount of pressure on yourself. If things don't pan out, it's even more disappointing.

What is Hendrikx's specific weakness in cyclocross? "It's not because of my start, which has been quite good lately. I believe I can actually capitalize on that strong start. It's purely a physical aspect in my case. Sometimes, I'm unable to hold onto someone's wheel when riding in their slipstream," he accurately noted. "Before the season, I didn't have specific results in mind. However, I had hoped to consistently secure a spot in the top ten or fifteen. Competing for notable positions, with occasional standout performances. Unfortunately, that hasn't materialized this year."

Hendrikx is uncertain about his future as professional cyclist, echoing similarities to Ryan Kamp's story.

As we delved into various topics, our conversation eventually turned to Hendrikx's road ambitions. Having ridden for years with the Alpecin-Deceuninck training team, he quickly shared some surprising information. "My contract is set to expire on Feb. 28. So, officially, I'm a pro for just two more months on paper. Currently, I don't have a new contract either, making it a significant question mark whether I'll continue as a pro after March 1. The uncertainty is truly challenging."

Hendrikx's predicament appears indicative of the current landscape in cyclocross. Interestingly, his story also mirrors that of compatriot Kamp, who recently navigated a unique transfer deal to prolong his cyclocross career (with assistance from the Roodhooft brothers). "Now, I need to focus on delivering the best possible results and making myself appealing to certain teams. I have to prove myself. However, seeing how things unfolded for Ryan highlights how truly challenging it is," Hendrikx acknowledges. 'Ryan is an immense talent and faced incredible difficulty securing a new contract. For me, this means there's a considerable chance I'll continue as a pro beyond March 1. That possibility is very much on the table.'

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Can Hendrikx sustain his career as professional cyclist? Exploring work and studying as serious alternatives

The reality is challenging for Hendrikx, whose future seemed promising not too long ago. "With the National Championship and the World Championships still ahead, crucial competitions are on the horizon, though I still need to qualify for the World Championships. I haven't met the qualification criteria yet. Reflecting on my past performances, I can confidently say that I excel in championships and can surpass my own limits on those days. I must draw hope from that as I approach upcoming races. Undoubtedly, the National Championship holds significant importance, and I plan to continue my season until after the World Championships, completing the entire season. Post-World Championships, I'll participate in everything, as has become somewhat of a standard. So, after March 1, it's a matter of wait and see."

Discussing his (sporting) future, he adds, "Finding a bike, a jersey, and a pair of pants is obviously not that challenging. However, covering all the expenses at the end of the month makes it much tougher. I genuinely enjoy participating in gravel races, although the feasibility of such endeavors remains uncertain. Returning to college is another option I need to consider. In case cycling doesn't work out, various thoughts cross my mind. Do I return to work, or do I pursue something else? There's a lot on my plate at the moment. It's far from an easy period. The upcoming months will be pivotal. We're keeping our fingers crossed for you, Mees!"

Below are the first two articles in the 'Renners uit de streek' series!