Spanish defending champ holds off challenge from Andy Schleck

PAUILLAC, France - Alberto Contador admitted to being pushed to his absolute limits on his way to virtually securing a third yellow jersey triumph on the Tour de France on Sunday.

"This year there were times when I wasn't exactly on top form, today included. The race this year was particularly hard," said Contador, who came close to losing his yellow jersey to Andy Schleck in Saturday's final time trial.