As I noted in another thread, he is one of only about a dozen riders (may be more, but can’t seem to identify them), to podium in all three GTs. Also, he is one of just eight riders, AFAIK, to win at least two of three GTs and finish at least second in the other. Besides the five who have won all three GTs, the others are Indurain and Rominger. Heady company indeed, though his second in the TDF, like one of his Vuelta wins, came only following sanction of a rider who finished ahead of him on the road. And in his Giro win, the rider behind him was also stripped. Obviously, DM must be judged relative to his contemporaries in an era known for doping.
Some great riders in earlier eras missed this list, either because the Vuelta didn’t exist during their time, or because they were targeting other GTs, but it still is IMO a major accomplishment. As we’re seeing this year, while the TDF may have the toughest competition, the Giro has its own challenges that in some respects may make it harder to win or place in than the Tour.
Netserk said:
The Vuelta started in 1935, so I don't know who you are referring to.
Major Taylor?
Yes, but it was run only a handful of times between then and 1955, and mostly contested by Spaniards. IOW, there was no particular reason for a great GT rider of that era to target it. It was not run on an annual basis until 1955, and it wasn't till the 60s that it became prestigious enough to make it worthwhile for non-Spanish riders to consider it seriously. Also worth noting that until the mid 90s, it was held in the spring, conflicting with the Giro.