There is very little to say about the Texan's efforts which has not already been publicised all over the world.

His successful battle against testicular cancer and his hat-trick of wins in the Tour de France have both been well documented.

Armstrong will be the runaway favourite for Le Tour again this year - and few would bet against him.

He is in second spot in the World Cup standings and has been unrivalled in recent seasons.

A fourth win would keep him on course to continue his long-term bid for five wins, matching the achievements of Jacques Anquetil, Bernard Hinault, Eddy Merckx and Miguel Indurain.

His dedication is legenadary. Like other current sporting greats such as Woods or Schumacher, Armstrong is not only the best, he also works hardest.

Armstrong's early career saw him represent the USA at the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona and his first big Tour success came in 1993 when he won a stage.

A promising career took a further step when he became the youngest road race world champion at the age of 21.

All that success was put on hold following successful chemotherapy treatment for cancer so advanced that many thought it a miracle when he survived.

But, when he returned to training, he found his muscle grew back in a different way to make him a sleaker and more competitive cyclist, particularly in the mountains.

He has used that new strength to become a formidable sportsman whose electric acceleration at crucial points on gruelling climbs is a key weapon in his Tour success.