Having chased it for a decade, Alejandro Valverde was finally on the podium of the Tour de France at the age 35. There have been many disappointments along the way, but finally he was on top in Paris.

The Movistar riders is more than satisfied. 

"It is clear that it is a victory because I had never been on the podium in Paris and this year I finally achieved it. It is a great honor to be here," he said according to Biciciclismo. "This is one of the (podiums) that is most important. The Tour is the Tour, it is special, different. And to be here on the podium is amazing, something I am honore aboutd. I felt great emotions and joy... everything."

After seven attempts and a fourth place last year, he achieved his sporting dream. 

"I was always there fighting but something always went wrong. In the end I made it after struggling and having made many sacrifices. I thought I would never get it. Not having the pressure of being a leader has helped me to be in front, always at Quintana's side and finally I was able to get the third place,"  he said.

Valverde has a contract until 2017 so he still have goals. One is to get the rainbow jersey after two second places (2003 and 2005) and four third places (2006, 2012, 2013 and 2014). 

"I would like to be world champion. It is difficult but I will keep fighting. There are still very good things ahead," he said. 

And why not return to the top in the Tour. 

"I would like to return to the podium next year," he added.

Before that, he will target his next races, the Clasica San Sebastian which he won last year, and the Vuelta a Espana. 

"Today I am very tired, but I think I will recover well," he said.