Baillie and Stott competed together for almost a decade in international competition, and their Olympic win in the C2 class at the Lee Valley White Water Centre was the highlight of their career.

"Retiring from international canoe slalom racing has been a difficult decision which I've agonised over for a long time," said 34-year-old Baillie.

"I still love canoeing but I've realised that I no longer have the underlying desire required to commit all of my time to the singular pursuit of canoe slalom excellence.

"Looking back, the London Olympic cycle took a lot of energy, particularly fighting back from so many setbacks and I think that burned through my passion for the sport."

Baillie and Stott's participation at London 2012 looked in doubt following a shoulder injury picked up by Stott but he recovered in time to lead the medal charge with close friend Baillie.

"It's sad because it's the end of a chapter but I respect Tim's decision and it is the right thing for Tim," said Stott, who plans to continue on in the sport and qualify for Rio 2016.

"I'm so proud and happy with the career that Tim and I had together, and very thankful for the good times, the hard times and the challenges that we've been through as a crew.

"It's taught me so much and developed me so far as an athlete, far beyond anything I would have dreamed of.

"I don't think that would have happened with another person and Tim has helped me so much.

"He has made a huge contribution to the sport and to me as an athlete."

Tim Baillie and Etienne Stott created history at London 2012 by claiming Britain's first ever Olympic gold in canoe slalom ©AFP/Getty Images