Nicole Joraanstad has retired from competitive curling ©Getty Images

American Winter Olympian Nicole Joraanstad has announced her retirement from competitive curling.

The 35-year-old competed for the US at the 2010 Olympics in Vancouver and also appeared at nine World Championships during a 21-year career.

She won a silver medal at the 2006 Worlds and played second behind skip Erika Brown this season, who also announced her own retirement last month.

Brown's rink won both the Continental Cup and National Championships this year.

Joraanstad's decision to retire follows the birth of her second child last week.

"It isn’t easy to step back from competing, but I know it is the right time for myself," she said.

Nicole Joraanstad competed at the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics ©Getty Images
Nicole Joraanstad competed at the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics ©Getty Images

"I want to thank all those that have been by my side helping me to chase my dreams. 

"I could not have been able to compete at this level without the love and undying support of my family and friends. 

"Their support is what fueled my dreams. 

"There are not enough words to express my gratitude for that.

“Although I am retiring from competitive curling, I look forward to continuing to share my love of curling with others, and someday, share the love of curling with my children just as I was shown by my parents 21-years ago."