"I've been very lucky to have the career that I've had" - Mark Cavendish hints career is over after completing 2024 Tour de France

Whilst Mark Cavendish had long revealed that the 2024 Tour de France would be the final Tour of his legendary career, it seems it may actually be the final race for the record breaking sprinter.

When asked if this is the end by ITV post-stage, "Likely so yeah," Cavendish responded thoughtfully, signalling the end of an era. Earlier this race, the Manx Missile took a history making 35th Tour de France stage win, putting himself above the legendary Eddy Merckx in the list of most stage wins in the long and storied history of cycling's most iconic race.

Although he hasn't really been able to contest for another win, Cavendish had done his job at the 2024 Tour de France and after surviving some close calls with the time cut over the last few mountain stages, the Astana Qazaqstan Team sprinter was able to relax an enjoy the final stage time-trial in Nice.

"I've been very lucky to have the career that I've had," Cavendish reflects with a warm smile. "My family was here waiting at the end for me, it was nice to see them while crossing the line with no pressure and just able to enjoy it. You see the success but it's very rare people see everything that goes in behind it - it's taught me a lot about myself and taught me a lot about how to be a father. That's the biggest thing I take from this sport."

Congratulations have been coming from across the cycling world for Cavendish, including two of his former teammates, Sir Bradley Wiggins and Chris Froome. "You’re going to go down as the greatest of all time," said the 2012 Tour winner. "There are not many GOATs in the world but you are certainly one of them and I’m so happy for you and the family," whilst Froome added: "Congratulations on an amazing career, you’ve inspired so many people, including myself."