Cycling legend Greg LeMond has announced he has been diagnosed with leukaemia at the age of 60.
The three-time Tour de France winner gained fame as one of the best cyclists in the world during the 1980s. LeMond is also the only American to have officially won the race after Lance Armstrong 's seven titles were discounted due to illegal doping.
The man affectionately known as 'LeMonster' was convinced to visit the doctors after "a few weeks of fatigue." Despite his intentions to watch this year's Tour in person, the California native confirmed he now planned to keep up to date from his home in Tennessee.
"I have been diagnosed with chronic myelogenous leukaemia," said LeMond in a statement published on his official website. "Fortunately, it is a type of cancer that is treatable, and it is a type of leukaemia that is not life-threatening or debilitating.
"Following a series of tests and a bone marrow biopsy, which was completed last week, I received my formal diagnosis last Friday. No-one ever wants to hear the word cancer but, admittedly, there is great relief, now, to know why I was feeling poorly."
LeMond will begin chemotherapy treatment this week following advice from medical professionals. The two-time World Road Race champion is being treated by doctors at the University of Tennessee alongside "consultation from a team at the Mayo Clinic."
LeMond went on to say he should be in remission "in a few months," adding his "long-term prognosis is very [favourable]." Despite missing out on this year's event, LeMond was upbeat about watching next year's edition in person.
After winning his maiden Tour title in 1986, LeMond's plans to retain the Yellow Jersey the following year were dashed after he was shot on a turkey-hunting trip in Lincoln, California. Nonetheless, he resumed his cycling career and won the Tour twice more in 1989 and 1990, becoming one of only 13 riders to win back-to-back crowns in cycling's most famous race.
"I will keep everyone updated about my health and treatments in the months ahead but for now, I believe I couldn’t be in better hands," concluded the 'L'Americain'. "I am excited about our plans ahead and I look forward to updating you all along the way."
