Michael Matthews

Biography

Michael Matthews' journey to becoming one of Australia's elite cyclists started thanks to a nudge from his high school PE teacher, Des Proctor. This encouragement led him to join a talent identification program at the ACT Academy of Sport. Just six months into the sport, Michael clinched the U17 national title. His talent was further acknowledged when he was invited to train with the Australian Institute of Sport, where he claimed the U23 road race title at the 2010 UCI Road World Championships in Geelong.

Turning professional in 2011, Michael swiftly made a name for himself as a powerful sprinter, particularly in uphill finishes. He kicked off his Grand Tour achievements with two stage victories in the 2013 Vuelta a España. The following year, he triumphed in stage six of the Giro d’Italia, donning the leader’s pink jersey for five days. His 2015 season was highlighted by stage wins at Paris-Nice and the Giro, alongside a silver medal at the UCI Road Race World Championships.

Michael's career continued to ascend with a breakthrough at the Tour de France, where he notched stage wins in 2016 and 2017, ultimately earning the prestigious green points jersey in 2017. That same year, he bagged a bronze at the UCI Road Race World Championships in Norway and a team time trial world title with Sunweb.

Switching to Team Bike Exchange in 2020, Michael added more victories to his illustrious career, including stages at the Tour de France and Volta a Catalunya. He continued to dominate, claiming the points classification at the 2022 Tour de Suisse and securing multiple podium finishes at the UCI Road World Championships in Wollongong.

As of 2024, Michael boasts ten Grand Tour stage wins, a testament to his resilience and prowess in competitive cycling. His career is marked by strategic races and thrilling sprints, positioning him as a notable figure in the world of cycling.