'A lot more in life': Former World No.1 and Aus champ announces shock retirement

Former World No.1 and Australian Open champ Carolina Wozniacki has announced she will retire following next year’s Australian Open.

The 29-year-old, one of female tennis’ most accomplished players of the decade, announced the decision on Instagram claiming she had plenty of ambitions she would like to chase off the court.

WOW: Serena's coach delivers huge GOAT call in Big Three debate

“I’ve played professionally since I was 15 years old. In that time I’ve experienced an amazing first chapter of my life,” she wrote.

“I’ve always told myself, when the time comes, that there are things away from tennis that I want to do more, then it’s time to be done. In recent months, I’ve realized that there is a lot more in life that I’d like to accomplish off the court.

“So with that, today I am announcing that I will be retiring from professional tennis after the Australian Open in January. This has nothing to do with my health and this isn’t a goodbye, I look forward to sharing my exciting journey ahead with all of you!”

The 29-year-old said she would like to focus on her family and charity work in the future.

Wozniacki won 30 WTA singles titles during her long career and held the World No.1 ranking for 71 weeks.

The pinnacle of Wozniacki’s career came at the Australian Open, which is where she will play her final tournament.

She defeated Simona Halep in a three-set thriller to take home the 2018 Australian Open.

Wozniacki is currently ranked 39.