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The Norweigan was crowned Olympic champion in 2004 and retained his title four years later, breaking the Games record with a throw of 90.57 metres in Beijing.
Thorkildsen also won gold at the World Championships in 2009, as well as claiming two European Championships titles in an impressive career.
He was on the podium in eight consecutive major championships, but has been troubled by injuries in recent times and has now called it a day.
Thorkildsen posted on Instagram: "I have decided to end my career as a professional javelin thrower.
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"It's been a fun ride. Thanks for all the support these years. Thanks to everyone who has helped me along the way."