Kent’s Jack Green has announced he has hung up his running shoes for the final time aged just 28.

The double Olympian and 400 metre hurdler has decided now is the time to step away from challenging on the world stage to focus on his future.

Having competed in both the London Olympics in 2012 and the Rio Olympics in 2016, Green has issued the following statement explaining why he’s decided now is the time to look to life after running:

“A new chapter begins.

I have decided to retire from track and field. I had every intention of training towards a third Olympic Games but after taking some time out and learning more about myself I came to realise that I wasn’t willing to give myself to the sport and make the necessary sacrifices to be the best I could be on the track.

I was not willing to lose myself or anything else in the hunt for Olympic success. There’s a damn sight more to life than running around and after nearly 10 years at the elite level I’m more than happy to move forward with the next part of my story.

I finish my athletics career having represented my country at every major championships possible, including two Olympics. This was something I dreamt of as an 8 year old. I would write stories in English about beating Maurice Greene in the 100m and taking home gold. I didn’t quite get the gold but I did achieve my dream!

Fourth at the Olympics, bronze medals from the Worlds and Europeans and a fourth at the Commonwealths. Not too bad an innings!

I want to say a massive thank you to my mum, nan and coach June. You have supported all my decisions, the good ones and bad ones. You have been loyal throughout and I love you for it.

Obviously there are hundreds more people who have supported me and I’m grateful to have had you on my journey. Thank you.

I will not be leaving the sport completely as I plan to step into the world of coaching, something I thoroughly enjoy and can hopefully help some athletes achieve their own dreams.

I will still be sharing my story about my mental health struggles and being an elite athlete. I’ve been lucky to speak for some of the top businesses and organisations in the world. So, feel free to get in touch if you think I could help you or your team!

Laters,

Jack”

Green has shown in the past decade what it takes to be an elite athlete and the struggles that go with it, but will leave a lasting legacy of how important it is to speak about your mental health issues and that life isn’t always easy.

Jack, the whole of Kent are proud of you.