American fans lined the route in Paris

Afterwards there was a mixture of relief and satisfaction at a win which confirms his rating as the world's best rider.

"It was a hard Tour de France and, like last year, I'm glad it's finished and I can see more of these guys," he said, with his wife and nine-month-old son at his side.

"This one's even more special than last year, partly because of this little guy."

On the podium Armstrong proudly held his infant son above his head, tears welling in his eyes.

A family moment after three weeks' hard work

Fans were encouraged to wear yellow to celebrations Sunday at bars but some are reluctant to buy a replica jersey.

"I don't think I deserve to wear one yet," said mountain bike racer Corbett Wood. "It's not really human what he does."

The town has been painted yellow with signs crying "Vive le Lance" and "Lance de Triomphe".

"Lance ... is truly a role model of strength and determination for all of us to follow," explained Austin Mayor Kirk Watson, himself a testicular cancer survivor.

Back in Paris, German supporters of the race runner-up were generous in defeat.

Ullrich (left) was generous to Armstrong

"I'm for Jan Ullrich and the rest of the Telekom team," said Stephanie Weber.

"But Lance Armstrong is very nice, he rode a good race."

Ullrich himself had no arguments, despite the 1997 Tour winner finishing second for the third time in five years.

"Armstrong is a worthy champion. He was the strongest man, and he met our every attack. He earned his victory," said the German.

Zabel success

Ullrich's team-mate and compatriot Erik Zabel was also a happy man after winning a record fifth green points jersey.

However he was annoyed at his own second place, in the final stage behind Stefano Zanini of Italy.

"This is such a great moment for me to be on the podium once again," said Zabel.

"For me and my team the 2000 Tour was a great Tour - though I was hoping to get a win on the Champs Elysees."

Most of the Tour riders will now concentrate on the Sydney Olympic events in September, where their trade team rivalries are transformed into national squads.

"It's special to ride for your country," said Armstrong. "Winning gold is a big objective."

The attitude towards the individual time trial - and another duel with Ullrich - is in stark contrast to last year when the Texan finished racing after the Tour.

"I had no motivation to ride again that year, but today I feel like I'm ready to go for it."