well I Imagine he is sponsored by Shimano and that is what they want him to run. Pros are going to ride what they are paid to ride. However, When I go to the am cross races almost everyone has 1X. I think it is more telling what is better when you see what people have when they have full control and use their own money. I have raced with both and for me 1X is the way to go. The jumps in gearing dont have to be big either because you dont need as big of a range as you do on road. An 11-32 I feel can give you more than enough range on cross courses. I know people who do 1x with 11-28, I think there are times if its hilly that could make you run a little too much.