I'm actually glad that Porte is going to podium. I'm shocked.
I don't know why anyone should be shocked. Surprised maybe but not shocked.
I can understand people's views on Porte if they don't follow him very closely. I'd probably have a similar view. But those of us who did follow him closely knew today's and this Tour's performance was within his capability.
A few doubts that have been answered:
Good on short climbs but not long climbs: Answered many times since 2013.
Can't last three weeks: Answered in 2016 TdF
Always has a bad day: Answered in 2016 TdF
Lacks mental confidence: Answered in 2020
For sure as others have posted in recent days the difference this time is between the ears. Physically he was always capable. If he had this level at 35 years of age then of course he was even more capable when he was a little younger. I don't think he felt much pressure this year.
Covid was a blessing in disguise but really what we saw today should show that people were right to rate him a genuine threat in 2017 when he crashed on Mont du chat. Probably 2018 too when he stuffed up again.