MORZINE, FRANCE (AP) -- The record seven-time champion from Austin wrote off his chances of victory in his 13th and last Tour. That signals the beginning of the end of one of the most celebrated and controversial careers in cycling history.

The 38-year-old Texan's hopes for yet another title were dashed today after he got caught in three crashes — one of which brought him down. He had to struggle to keep up during two tough climbs in Stage 8, the race's first foray into the Alps. He and his team said his hip got banged up, keeping him from pedaling hard.

The stage was won by 25-year-old Andy Schleck of Luxembourg, and Armstrong finished nearly 12 minutes back, in 61st place and 30th overall.

Afterward, Armstrong said, "My Tour is finished." In a Twitter message, he said, "When it rains it pours I guess. Today was not my day, needless to say. Quite banged but gonna hang in here and enjoy my last 2 weeks."

The race finishes July 25 in Paris.

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