Mathieu van der Poel and Jonas Rickaert broke away early during the Tour de France's ninth stage. Van der Poel gained 20 sprint points but was ultimately caught just 700 meters from the finish. Despite a valiant solo effort, he could not fend off a fast-approaching peloton. Tim Merlier won the sprint finish, while Van der Poel's team had previously claimed both opening stages. Rickaert received the combativity prize, motivated by his ambition for a podium finish at the Tour.
Mathieu van der Poel attacked early in the sprint stage and fought tirelessly until 700 meters from the finish, ultimately being caught by the peloton.
Despite a valiant attempt to secure a stage win, Van der Poel's advantage diminished quickly, and he was reabsorbed within sight of the finish line.
Tim Merlier won the disorganized sprint finish, while Van der Poel's team claimed significant victories earlier in the race, securing five yellow jerseys.
Jonas Rickaert aimed for a podium finish at the Tour de France, motivated by discussions with Van der Poel before the stage.
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