NATALIE Powell has announced her retirement from judo.

The Builth Wells trained British and Welsh international steps away after two decades in the sport.

The 33 year old Irfon Judo Club star said: "Putting my journey into words feels impossible.

"From being a kid dreaming of going to the Olympics one day, to stepping on the mat in Rio and Tokyo. From the highs of winning World and European medals to the training days that pushed me to my physical and mental limits.

"Judo has taught me that I'm capable of much more than I ever believed. It has given me experiences and lifelong friendships far beyond what I ever dreamed."

Powell has medalled at every major championship outside of the Olympics and was Commonwealth champion back in 2014 and Britain’s last world number 1 ranked Olympic fighter in 2017.

She was also the first British female to be ranked number one in the world.

Powell added: "Despite judo being a solo sport, the journey was never alone, there are quite literally hundreds of people who have contributed and supported me and I am so thankful for each and every one of you.

"Darren Warner stepped in as my coach in 2014 and completely changed my career. Darren improved my performance in every area, taught me to be professional, and made me believe that anything was possible.

"His attention to detail, knowledge and effort has always been on another level. I couldn’t have wished for a better coach, mentor and person to share my journey with.

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"I would like to say a massive thank you to all the Sport Wales practitioners and staff I have worked with over the years. The support you have given me from the very start of my career has been incredible.

"Your attention to detail and ability to create a great environment has inspired me throughout. It’s been a privilege to work with each and every one of you."

Powell also reserved praise for the Welsh judo system which nurtured her talent.

"The Welsh Judo Association has been my home from the beginning," said Powell. "Starting in Irfon Judo Club with Richard, Phil and Jen, the club has never stopped in providing a great support network.

"Moving through the Welsh system I was fortunate to be coached by some of the greats, Alan Petherbridge, Neil Adams, Mark Earle, Craig Fallon, Alan Jones, Darren Warner.

"Welsh Judo, its coaches and community have supported me through the highs and lows of my journey for which I am forever grateful.

"Thank you British Judo Association and all the staff members I’ve worked with over the years and a special thank you to Kate Howey who has been there for me no matter what, picked me up when I’ve been at my lowest and celebrated with me at my highest. "

"Thank you UK Sport and The National Lottery for your continued support throughout my career. You gave me the resources to really go after my dreams, for which I am extremely grateful.

"Thank you to all my team mates, training partners and friends, I feel very fortunate to have had such great people to share the journey with. A special mention to Tom Hughes who has helped me out time after time, top bloke."

Powell reserved special praise for her family.

"Mum, Dad, Haps, Kirst and Lauren - I really hit the jackpot when I got you guys as my family and partner. Thanks for always believing in me and being Team Natto no matter what. The efforts and sacrifice you all made to support my dreams blows my mind.

"Words will never be enough to describe how important you all are to me, Love you always.

I’m ending this chapter with a feeling of immense gratitude and a full heart. The lessons, friendships and experiences will stay with me forever. Thank you to everyone who has been part of this incredible journey."