In his fifth season as a fully-fledged professional, Kenny van Hummel made a big impression on the world cycling scene in 2009. He was a winner of five races, but it was his performance at the 2009 Tour de France which drew worldwide attention.

He became a cult hero to many as he fought an often solo battle with the Tour's time limits. A crash just days before the finish in Paris forced him to retire from the race, but the Skil-Shimano rider has bounced back and will keep Cyclingnews readers posted on the 2010 season.