Two-time Winter Olympian Maria Ramberger of Austria has announced her retirement from snowboarding ©Getty Images

Two-time Winter Olympian Maria Ramberger of Austria has announced her retirement from snowboarding with the new International Ski Federation (FIS) season approaching.

Ramberger, who specialises in snowboard cross, has endured an injury-plagued career but managed to compete in 63 FIS World Cup races.

The 30-year-old represented her country at both the 2010 and 2014 Winter Olympic Games in Vancouver and Sochi, reaching the quarter-finals at the events after being caught up in two crashes.

Her best World Cup performance came in Montafon in 2012, where she was part of the Austrian contingent which claimed the team gold medal.

Ramberger, who earned top 10 appearances at three World Championships, has now decided to step away from the sport after more than 15 years on the snow.

Maria Ramberger represented Austria at both the Vancouver 2010 and Sochi 2014 Winter Olympic Games ©Getty Images
Maria Ramberger represented Austria at both the Vancouver 2010 and Sochi 2014 Winter Olympic Games ©Getty Images

"I have defined new goals although I will stay active for sure," Ramberger said.

"Sport has always played a major role in my life - but now as a hobby.

"If you are on tour for some eight months, you see a lot.

"But it's not only the slopes or the lifts which stay in mind.

"Now, it's time for something new.

"I want to thank everyone who has been supporting me over the course of my career.

"I was always able to focus on my sport."

The Austrian said she was glad she was able to fulfil a lifelong dream of competing at the Olympic Games and claims she will look back on her career with fond memories.

"It was a dream of mine to be an Olympic athlete since I was a kid, and I was able to fulfil my dream," she said.

"It's been exciting and I definitely had some great moments."