Ashley Moolman-Pasio abandoned the Tour de France Femmes Avec Zwift after struggling in the first mountain stage due to illness.

The South African climber was expected to be in contention for the yellow jersey in the mountain stages of the final weekend, but was unable to give his best on Saturday.

She dropped out of the main group after Annemiek van Fruten (Movistar) exploded in the race on the first climb. Moolman-Pasio finished 18th, more than 13 minutes behind the new race leader in 12th place overall.

It was apparently illness that caused her to drop seven places on her favorite mountain course. Mourman-Pasio announced that she would miss Sunday's final stage, citing an "infection."

"With a heavy heart, I say I will not start today. I have an infection and with medical advice I decided to respect my body," she said.

"I never knew things could change so quickly ...... I felt super strong and had what it takes to win. ...... I can't believe that in just a few hours, I was completely empty. As professional athletes, we literally live on the edge...... We are constantly walking a tight rope.

Mourman-Pasio was part of a two-pronged attack by SD Works, reaching the mountains in fifth place overall behind teammate Demi Vollering. However, the initiative was quickly decided on Saturday's stage 7, as Vollaring was the only one able to get close to Van Vleuten.

Mourmain-Pasio's abandonment left Vollaring relatively isolated on the final stage, which finishes at La Super Planche des Belle Filles. It is also disappointing for Mourman-Pasio that she did not reach the finish of such an important and historic race in the development of women's cycling, in which she has played an important role.

"Thank you for your amazing support over the past few days! It is truly special to be a part of this amazing race. There is no doubt that this is the biggest race in the world and women's cycling will be the better for it. Thank you to everyone who made this possible," said Mourman Pacio.

"It will take me a few days to process the disappointment, but I will never lose hope and come back stronger to fight again. I wish my teammates lots of strength for the final stage."