The 27-year-old defender also won an Olympic silver medal with her country at the Sochi 2014 Games, but she has now opted to step aside after 11 years of play for the US.

"I will forever cherish the dreams I accomplished with my teammates and the amazing journey we took together," she said. 

"I am so very proud to have been a part of Team USA and representing something greater than ourselves at all times.

"I'd like to thank my family, friends, everyone at USA Hockey, and those who supported me during the past 11 years."

Schleper played 68 games for her country in all, winning the world title in 2011, 2013 and 2015.

She registered 24 points - six goals and 18 assists - and is currently on the books of the Buffalo Beauts of the National Women's Hockey League.

"Anne has been a consistent leader in the programme and was a tremendous team-mate who always came to the rink with a smile on her face," said Reagan Carey, director of women's ice hockey for USA Hockey. 

"She was a dedicated player who proudly wore the US jersey and represented her country with everything she had. 

"Her effort was influential in the team achieving success and we wish her the best in the next stage of her life."