Mark Cavendish is 'the GOAT' – Adam Blythe and Robbie McEwen laud 'phenomenon' retiring sprinter

Mark Cavendish is “the greatest sprinter of all time” and “one of a kind”, said Eurosport expert Adam Blythe after the British legend announced he would retire at the end of the season. Cavendish has enjoyed a stellar 17-year career, which includes 53 Grand Tour stage wins, a world road race title in 2011 and an Olympic silver medal in the velodrome. Ad The 38-year-old, who is currently competing at the Giro d’Italia, is expected to target the outright record of stage victories at the Tour de France in July with Astana Qazaqstan.

He is currently tied with Belgian icon Eddy Merckx on 34 wins. Giro d'ItaliaThomas pays tribute to 'greatest sprinter of all time' Cavendish ahead of retirement17 HOURS AGO “He is the GOAT. He’s the greatest sprinter of all time for me and a great friend,” Blythe said on the ground at the Giro.

“I think it’s his time to stop now, he’s been so successful. One year of his career would make a whole rider’s career, never mind all the other wins he’s had. “He’s just a phenomenon and one of a kind.

I don’t think we’ll see anyone like Cavendish in the years to come.” Cavendish has not tasted victory since June 2022, although he hinted at a return to form by finishing third on Stage 11 at the Giro. With two sprint stages left on the menu in Italy, including Wednesday’s run from Camaiore to Tortona, Cavendish could yet end his drought in Italy – if he survives the mountains. “It’s going to be hard to get there but tomorrow is going to be a good day for him,” added Blythe.