The 31-year-old was pushing for a dramatic solo stage win on the descent from the Col de Sarenne toward Alpe d'Huez when he misjudged a fast right-hand bend.

The American crashed on a fast descent as he led stage 20 but was saved from a horrific fall by some strategically placed netting

The 31-year-old was pushing for a dramatic solo stage win on the descent from the Col de Sarenne toward Alpe d'Huez when he misjudged a fast right-hand bend.