Mark Cavendish, widely regarded as the greatest sprint cyclist in history, reflects on his extraordinary career as he approaches his 40th birthday. After decades of grueling competition, his journey on the bike concluded last month with a triumphant final victory in Singapore, following his record-breaking 35th Tour de France stage win earlier in the year. Despite the toll on his body, Cavendish has no regrets, feeling a deep sense of accomplishment for all he achieved.
After nearly 20 years at the pinnacle of cycling, Cavendish acknowledges the physical cost of his career. He describes the strain his body has endured, especially when attempting to run, highlighting how years spent hunched over handlebars have shaped him physically. Yet, he sees this as a natural part of life as a professional athlete, noting that the joy of competing far outweighs the lasting physical challenges.
This week, Cavendish will receive a lifetime achievement award at the BBC Sports Personality of the Year ceremony. While he expresses gratitude for the recognition, he admits to feeling a competitive sting over not being shortlisted for the main award, especially after his historic accomplishments. This echoes a similar omission in 2021, when he made a remarkable comeback, winning four stages at the Tour de France after battling illness and depression. Cavendish admits it’s difficult to understand what more he could have done to earn a nomination, but he remains gracious about the honor of the lifetime award.
Reflecting on his decision to race for one more year, Cavendish reveals that his motivation was to secure the elusive 35th Tour stage win, a goal he previously dismissed as media-driven but now embraces as a personal triumph. The journey was far from easy; recovering from a broken collarbone and proving his worth to team managers who doubted his abilities pushed him to his limits. However, his determination paid off, culminating in an unforgettable victory during this year’s Tour. Sharing the moment with his wife, children, and fellow riders made it even more meaningful.
Cavendish’s career has been defined not only by his victories but also by his resilience. One poignant memory is his perseverance during the 2018 Tour de France when he completed a mountain stage despite knowing he would be eliminated for missing the time cut. For Cavendish, this act of respect for the sport symbolized his commitment to its enduring values. He believes in showing his children the importance of persistence, even in the face of insurmountable challenges.
The mental struggles Cavendish faced throughout his career, including periods of depression, are a testament to his strength and determination. Even in his darkest moments, he held onto his winning mindset, using it as a beacon to guide him back to success. His openness about these struggles has made him a relatable and inspiring figure, proving that even the most accomplished athletes face personal battles.
As he transitions into retirement, Cavendish looks forward to spending more time with his wife and children. He plans to remain involved in cycling, aiming to take on a management role where he can use his expertise to build and lead teams. This next chapter excites him, offering a chance to contribute to the sport in a new way.
Ultimately, Cavendish feels fortunate to retire on his own terms, with no regrets. He views his career as complete, having achieved more than he ever dreamed. His legacy as a competitor, mentor, and role model is firmly cemented, and he embraces the future with gratitude and optimism.
