PARIS — Cadel Evans won the Tour de France on Sunday, becoming the first Australian to capture cycling's most prestigious title.

The 34-year-old Evans crossed the finish line on the Champs-Elysees on Sunday at the end of the largely ceremonial final stage. He had virtually secured the title with his ride in the time trial in Grenoble a day earlier.

Andy Schleck of Luxembourg finished second overall for the third straight year, with brother Frank Schleck in third.

The 21st and final stage — the most prestigious for the race's sprinters — was won by Britain's Mark Cavendish for the third successive year. He also took the green jersey for the overall best sprinter.

The polka-dot jersey awarded to the best climber was taken by Olympic champion Samuel Sanchez of Spain, while the best young rider was Pierre Rolland of France.