Ken Roczen on his new mindset: “I’m just trying to enjoy myself and not put on a lot of pressure”
Ken Roczen, one of the most respected and talented motocross riders of his generation, has embraced a fresh approach to his sport. In a recent interview with Motocross Action Magazine, Roczen revealed that he has shifted his mentality, focusing on enjoying the races without putting unnecessary pressure on himself. This change seems to be benefiting both his performance and overall well-being.
“I’m just trying to have fun and not put too much pressure on myself,” Roczen said. “Every week, I focus on enjoying the experience and doing my best without getting lost in expectations and the stress that can come with it.” This relaxed approach is a conscious decision for Roczen, who has dealt with serious injuries and long recovery periods in the past, impacting both his physical and mental health.
Performance without pressure
This new mindset is already paying off. During the 2025 Glendale Supercross, Roczen delivered an impressive performance, winning the second moto and finishing third overall. Despite racing on a surface he doesn’t typically favor, Roczen showcased his speed and skill. “I felt comfortable and confident on the bike,” he said after the race.
His results in Glendale prove that even with a more relaxed attitude, Roczen remains one of the top riders in the field. His combination of technical ability, experience, and mental calm makes him a formidable competitor in the Supercross and motocross world.
A new approach
Letting go of pressure hasn’t been an easy decision. In a sport where athletes constantly face expectations from teams, fans, and themselves, learning to release that weight is challenging. But for Roczen, it was a necessary step to preserve his love for the sport and extend his career.
“I’ve learned that you can’t always control everything,” Roczen explained. “Sometimes you just have to accept when things don’t go as planned. By putting less pressure on myself, I enjoy every race more and stay motivated to improve.”
Mental resilience as a strength
Roczen’s approach highlights the importance of mental resilience in professional sports. Many athletes struggle to balance performance with personal well-being, and Roczen’s openness about this issue is inspiring. His ability to focus on enjoyment and personal growth without the constant weight of expectations shows that success and well-being can go hand in hand.
As Roczen prepares for the rest of the season, his fans eagerly anticipate what this relaxed, focused version of him will achieve. One thing is clear: with his immense talent and renewed perspective, Ken Roczen is set to deliver plenty of excitement on the track.