'You're not supposed to have favourites as a journalist' – an ode to Julian Alaphilippe, cycling's great swashbuckler who is reportedly retiring

Julian Alaphilippe, the charismatic French cyclist, is reportedly retiring from professional cycling at the age of 34. Seven years ago, he won the individual time trial at the 2019 Tour de France, sparking a frenzy in the city of Pau where he was born and raised. The crowd cheered as if they were celebrating a cup final-winning goal, and the young athlete was hailed as a golden prince and a showman.

Alaphilippe’s talent was evident from the start. He only started cycling after tossing a coin with becoming a drummer, and he went on to become a two-time world champion, a six-time Tour de France stage winner, and the darling of the French public. His time trial win in 2019 was among his most impressive performances, and he wore the yellow jersey for 14 days, including during the grueling time trial.

Despite his success, Alaphilippe remained humble and gracious. He once said that whatever the result of a race, he wouldn’t have any regrets. In 2019, he finished fifth in Paris, head held high as the man who helped the home fans believe. His retirement comes as a surprise, but it is fitting that it happened at the race that made his career.