Urs Meier: In those moments, one is so focused and concentrated that while you perceive the reactions of players, coaches, and spectators, you do not yet fully grasp the consequences and significance of the decision. It is a great feeling to be active in a full stadium with thousands of spectators and to absorb all the energy of the crowd, which can be positive or negative at times. This is part of sports, but also of life, where things don't always go smoothly, but have moments of rain, storms, and cold, as well as moments when the sun shines, and it's warm and cozy.
Speakers Excellence: Are you even aware of the significance of your decisions in those moments?Urs Meier: Should one even be aware or is it sometimes better to simply ignore the consequences for the moment? An English observer once asked me after a game: "Do you even know why you are so successful?" I replied that he surely has the answer. He then said: "You don't overthink." Yes, sometimes it is indeed better not to dwell too much on what consequences a decision might have, otherwise, one might get blocked or opt for the "supposedly" less "bad" choice. What's important in such decisions is always that they are made with heart and gut, that they are honest and not influenced by external pressure.
Speakers Excellence: For your whistles, you have been cursed by Romanian witches and your hometown had to endure the phone harassment of thousands of angry Englishmen. It's clear that the consequences are not always fun. Those in charge don't always make many friends. What has helped you deal with the impact of your decisions?Urs Meier: Honesty, even with oneself. Of course, you will be attacked and criticized when you put yourself in a position that requires decisions for different parties. But what is the alternative? Making no decisions? Handing over decisions to others? I have always accepted this challenge and tried to stand by and admit my mistakes when they happen. When things go well, it's important to remain humble and enjoy the moment. Of course, having a supportive environment, including family and friends who "carry" you when things don't go well, is crucial. But even for that, you have to put in the effort, otherwise, the "safety net" may not be there when needed.
Speakers Excellence: What would you consider the toughest decision of your career?Urs Meier: It was always difficult to caution players in the second legs of Champions League semi-finals or in the World Cup who missed the final with that yellow card: including Roy Keane, Paul Scholes, Pavel Nedved, Michael Ballack. As a referee, one should always know what hurts, both physically and emotionally.
Speakers Excellence: Is there a decision in your career, whether sporting or not, that you would still like to undo today?Urs Meier: Since every decision, right or wrong, contributes to one's development, I wouldn't want to miss or undo any of my decisions, except for a red card in the Champions League semi-final AS Monaco - Chelsea FC against Akis Zikos of AS Monaco, which was a) wrongly given as I fell for the theatrics of an English player, and b) caused him to miss the final.
Speakers Excellence: Which strategy has served you best so far: boldly making decisions or waiting and carefully weighing things first?Urs Meier: Making bold decisions that are decided by both head and gut. Not making a decision is also a decision!
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