When it comes to legends of the road, there are few in the modern era that come close to Tom Boonen. Equal record holder at Paris-Roubaix, he came oh-so-close to getting his fifth win on the hallowed velodrome last April, and almost as close to a second World road race title in October.

His versatility and ability to bounce back after injuries that would see most hang it up makes the man they call Tommeke an icon and one of the true Flandrians. To see him crushing the cobbles one last time next Spring will be a bittersweet moment for those of us who hold the pavé and its masters in high regard. Chapeau Tommeke.