Lance Armstrong Faced a Worthy Foe Who Came Back From the Brink of Death to Compete at the Highest Level

Rivalries are the ultimate essence of every sport. It not only increases fans’ excitement but also brings out the best performances. Rivalries help players to improve their skills and set high standards. Every elite athlete has always had a rival. However, these rivalries become more interesting when the rivals face off at the grandest stage.

Lance Armstrong was one of the greatest cyclists to play the sport. He conquered major races all around the world during his reign. Although he retired from the sport in 2006, the legend came back once again in 2009, for one last Tour De France title. However, this comeback gave birth to one greatest rivalries in cycling history.

Both Lance Armstrong and Alberto Contador faced common challenges in the past

After three and a half years, Lance Armstrong announced his return to professional cycling at the age of 37. This age is not adequate for participating in such a tough competition. But, it wasn’t a big issue against Armstrong’s commitment. He had already set high standards by defeating cancer and winning the Tour De France title for seven years.

Through the early season of 2009, the former champion worked to put together the elements of his old form. However, he had some challenges ready in his own team.

Read More: Lance Armstrong’s Infamous ‘Character’ Draws Comparison to New Cycling World Champion at 22

Lance was in team Astana, which was full of match winners. Spanish cyclist Alberto Contador was the pre-tournament favorite to lead Astana to victory. He was the best rider in the world for the past two years. Just like Armstrong, the Spanish cyclist had also made his way through a near-death experience after going through a risky brain surgery just a few years before his France tour victory in 2007. Despite wearing the same jersey, the struggle for supremacy lead to a heated rivalry between the two stars.

Armstrong and Contador had their own strengths

Contador got the first advantage by winning the time trial round. However, Armstrong got a chance to grill Contador after he cramped in the second stage. He tweeted “Unfortunate day for Alberto. Amazing talent but still a lot to learn.”

It became clear after the few stages that nobody can climb mountains better than Contador but, there is no competition to Lance’s planning and mindset. Lance Armstrong announced his retirement in 2006 and ended up with a glorious career. But in 2009, he announced his return to raise global awareness about cancer. His comeback surely gave some epic moments for fans.

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