Star shone alongside brother as he pipped him on Olympic podiums

DOUBLE Olympic champion Alistair Brownlee has retired.

Brownlee, 36, won triathlon gold at both London 2012 and Rio 2016.

But the veteran has decided to hang up his goggles, bike and trainers to draw the curtain on his illustrious career.

Brownlee released an emotional statement on Thursday morning to confirm he had reached the end of his race.

The Yorkshireman wrote: "It's time to close this chapter...

"This marks my transition from professional triathlon, a moment approached with both dread and excitement in equal measure.

"Triathlon has profoundly shaped my life; I have dedicated nearly half of it to being a professional athlete, fulfilling my childhood dream and achieving far more than I ever dared to imagine.

"Why now? It feels right. I am happy and content, eager for what lies ahead. I find myself smiling because it happened, rather than crying because it's over (to paraphrase Dr. Seuss).

"I look forward to embracing a slightly slower pace of life, yet not too slow. There's an exciting array of events, challenges, and adventures awaiting me -- things I've always wanted to have a crack at but haven't had the chance to pursue.

"For me, sport has always been a personal journey of exploration, and I'm excited to try some new challenges. Feel free to make suggestions below.

"First, I have many wonderful people to thank and some well-deserved relaxation to embrace.

"In the coming months, I'll share more about my career and the incredible individuals who have been part of my journey, along with the new and exciting challenges and projects I'm eager to tackle.

"I am deeply grateful to each and every one of you for your contributions, no matter how small you may believe they are. Your support means the world to me. Thank you from the bottom of my heart."

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