Niewiadoma had almost given up hope of winning against Vollering: "They were shouting loudly in my earpiece"

The final stage of the Tour de France Femmes was filled with suspense! Ultimately, Demi Vollering took the stage win, though she had hoped for even more. Yellow jersey holder Kasia Niewiadoma managed to keep a slim four-second lead at the finish line to officially secure the overall victory.

For a long time, it seemed the odds were against the Polish rider, especially after Vollering's attack on the Col du Glandon—with Alpe d'Huez still ahead. "It was insane. The stage was like a rollercoaster," the delighted winner said afterward. "I lost all my confidence when I couldn't keep up with Demi on the Col du Glandon. I was in a bad state, both physically and mentally. I ate everything I had with me and drank a lot, then I told myself I was ready to go again."

Niewiadoma's victory was hard-earned

Niewiadoma certainly kept the excitement alive. She regained her composure on the descent and performed impressively on Alpe d'Huez. "I need to thank Lucinda Brand from Lidl-Trek," she graciously acknowledged, noting that Brand had worked tirelessly for Gaia Realini. "She really helped us close the gap to Demi and Pauliena (Rooijakkers), the two race leaders."

"On the climb up Alpe d’Huez, I knew I had to manage my effort wisely and push as hard as I could in the final five kilometers. That was the only way to keep the gap small," she continued. "Honestly, I didn't think I would make it. They were screaming into the radio in my earpiece, haha! I hated every part of that climb, it was incredibly tough. I only knew I had won when I crossed the finish line. It was unbelievable!"