Sir Bradley Wiggins announces retirement from professional cycling

Bradley Wiggins of Britain on the podium of the Men's team pursuit final at the Rio Olympic Velodrome in August 2016. Photo / AP

Sir Bradley Wiggins has announced his retirement from cycling.

The 36-year-old was the first British winner of the Tour de France in 2012 and exits the sport as one of his country's most decorated riders on road and track.

In a statement posted to his Facebook page, Wiggins said:

"I have been lucky enough to live a dream and fulfil my childhood aspiration of making a living and a career out of the sport I fell in love with at the age of 12.

"I've met my idols and ridden with and alongside the best for 20 years. I have worked with the world's best coaches and managers who I will always be grateful to for their support.

"What will stick with me forever is the support and love from the public though thick and thin, all as a result of riding a pushbike for a living. 2012 blew my mind and was a gas.

"Cycling has given me everything and I couldn't have done it without the support of my wonderful wife Cath and our amazing kids.

Sir Bradley Wiggins "I have been lucky enough to live a dream and fulfil my childhood aspiration of making a living and...

Posted by Wiggins on Wednesday, December 28, 2016

Wiggins won his fifth Olympic gold in Rio this year as part of the team pursuit, adding to a tally that also includes a silver and two bronzes.

He competed in five successive Games from Sydney 2000 and reached a career high in 2012 when he completed an unprecedented double of a maiden Tour de France victory with Team Sky and a home Olympic triumph in the time-trial in London.

This article first appeared in Telegraph UK