Bermuda’s most decorated athlete, Dame Flora Duffy, has announced her retirement.

During her illustrious career, Duffy won Bermuda’s only Olympic gold medal in Tokyo in 2021, two Commonwealth Games gold medals and was a four-time triathlon world champion.

In an emotional post on Instagram, Duffy, who has struggled with significant injuries in the past couple of years, reflected on her career and thanked the people of Bermuda for their support during two decades of sustained success.

“As I close this chapter of my life, I do so with a heart full of gratitude,” Duffy said.

“Growing up in Bermuda with its pink sand beaches and turquoise waters, I fell in love with the sport of triathlon 30 years ago.

“From my first Olympic appearance in Beijing in 2008, through London and Rio, to winning gold in Tokyo and my final Olympic appearance in Paris, every stroke, pedal and stride has been the privilege of a lifetime. Winning four World Triathlon titles, six XTERRA World Championships and two Commonwealth Games gold medals are achievements I could never have imagined as a young island girl. Dreams came true and more.

“None of it would have been possible without the coaches who believed in me when I doubted myself, the friends who kept me grounded through the highs and the lows (the many injuries) and the training partners who always kept it fun. To family ― thank you for always supporting me even if my dreams did seem a little crazy at times.

“To my husband Dan ― thank you for walking every step of this journey beside me and introducing me to Stellenbosch. You were always the one to believe in me the most.

“A note to my sponsors, who invested in the dream and partnered to make them happen. I am so grateful. I sure wish we had another finish line or two to celebrate together.

“And finally, to everyone in Bermuda, it has been my greatest joy to represent our small island around the world. To see the Bermuda flag raised while standing on top of the podium are memories I will treasure forever.”