Mark Cavendish's Triumphant Farewell at the Tour de France

Mark Cavendish, a British cyclist, is set to retire after finishing the final stage of the Tour de France. At 39 years, Cavendish has achieved his goal of breaking the all-time record for most stage wins. Known as the 'Manx Missile,' he amassed 165 career victories, including a world title.

British cyclist Mark Cavendish will likely retire after concluding the final stage of the Tour de France on Sunday. This year, Cavendish achieved his ambition of breaking the all-time record for most stage wins at the Tour, a feat that has cemented his legendary status in cycling.

The 39-year-old, dubbed the 'Manx Missile,' was the second cyclist to initiate the individual time trial from Monaco to Nice, marking the end of this year's Tour. Cavendish appeared emotional as he waved to the crowd, soaking in the moment.

'It was just about enjoying it. There's no pressure for me today, which is unusual for a final stage. I knew my family was waiting at the finish, and it was just about absorbing it,' Cavendish stated, reflecting on the emotional day.

Cavendish had announced his retirement in May last year but postponed the decision upon his team's urging to make one last attempt at the Tour de France stage win record. He finally broke the tie with Eddy Merckx, earning his 165th career victory in stage five this year.

The Isle of Man native has had an illustrious career, including an individual silver medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics and three world titles in the Madison discipline.

'I've been incredibly lucky to have the career I've had, to meet and work with wonderful people, and to live my dream,' Cavendish reflected. He also confirmed that while this may be his final race, he will remain connected to cycling and the Tour de France.

(With inputs from agencies.)