The 38-year-old pilot ends her career as the reigning world champion in the two-woman event, having triumphed with Annika Drazek at this year’s World Championships in Igls.

She also secured mixed team gold at the Championships, which took place in February.

"I thank my girls for what you have done, without you this time would have never been so successful and unique," Schneiderheinze wrote on her Facebook page.

“I thank my coaches Rene Spies and Christoph Heyder for continuous motivation that was needed to achieve this performance.

"Thanks to my family/parents who have so made me a crazy sports fan.

"My partner and friends who are always there for me.

"Thanks to the team of tutors, trainers, physios, doctors and mechanics for the great cooperation and thanks to my sponsors, without you many things would not at first become possible."

Schneiderheinze switched from ice skating to bobsleigh in 2001, beginning her career by pushing Sandra Kiriasis.

The duo won the overall International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation (IBSF) World Cup title for four straight years between 2004 and 2007.

They were able to clinch the World Championship title in 2005, before triumphing at the Olympic Games the following year.

Schneiderheinze made her debut as a pilot in 2011 and marked that season by winning European Championship silver with Christin Senkel.

She bettered the achievement in 2015 by claiming gold with Franziska Bertels, before winning World Championship silver with Drazek later that year.

Last month, Schneiderheinze became the first athlete from her sport to receive the Kienbaum Award, with the honour rewarding German competitors who represent the Olympic values of fair play, respect and teamwork.